It's a shortened version of the Spanish word "tia," which means "aunt."
However, Filipinos use "tita" in a broader sense. It can be used to refer to:
* An older woman who is not related by blood but is treated like family (like a close friend's mother or a family friend)
* A woman who is significantly older than the speaker, even if they are not related (like a teacher, neighbor, or a woman in the community)
* As a term of respect for any woman, regardless of age (similar to how "ma'am" is used in English)
So, while "tita" doesn't have a direct translation, it reflects the Filipino culture of respect and warmth towards older women.