genitor

noun

gen·​i·​tor

ˈjenətər,

-nəˌtȯ(ə)r

plural -s

: one who begets : father, parent

the genitor of that political hybrid, the corporate state

—Avro Manhattan

specifically : the biological as distinguished from the legal father in some cultures compare pater

Word History

Etymology

Middle English genytur, from Latin genitor, from genitus (past participle of gignere to beget) + -or

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!