father figure

noun

Synonyms of father figure next

: a person often of particular power or influence who serves as an emotional substitute for a father

Examples of father figure in a Sentence

The coach was a stern, wise father figure to his players.

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Jimmy Carter was something of a father figure to Jasculca, who was only 20 when his own father died of a heart attack, and became something of an additional grandfather to his four children. —

Bob Skolnik, Chicago Tribune, 5 Jan. 2025 When the two first met at an art exhibition, Pohl was skeptical about the idea of a new father figure. —

Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 1 Dec. 2024 Huddleston brings a gregarious energy to the role — a sort of Santa-as-Kenny Rogers down-home father figure with a raspy voice and a sincere love of children. —

Katie Rife, Vulture, 16 Nov. 2024 Master Splinter, the wise rat sensei who acts as a mentor and father figure to the show's titular Ninja Turtles. —

Shania Russell, EW.com, 11 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for father figure

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of father figure was in 1916

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Father figure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/father%20figure. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

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