These words, notwithstanding instances 1789 and 1872, are usually accented on the first syllable.
1789.
The maid, refreshd with cakes and wine, | |
Forbids her tender swain to pine; | |
But lest mama should chide her stay, | |
She enters soon the gliding sleigh. | |
American Museum, v. 204 (Feb.). |
1808.
His little son, a lad of merit | |
Who oft had seen him steepd in spirit, | |
In great surprise, crid, Mamma, see | |
A miracle, a prodigy; | |
Papas come home, with decent spunk, | |
To save his hay, and is not drunk. | |
The Balance, March 15, p. 44. |
1872.
If the men were so wicked, I ll ask my papa | |
How he dared to propose to my darling mamma. | |
Holmes, The Poet at the Breakfast-Table, chap. iii. |