father figure

noun

Synonyms of father figurenext
: 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.
The lawyer pulled up more than a dozen emails showing the once-budding actress fawning over the Oscar-winning producer and seeking his counsel like a father figure. Molly Crane-Newman, New York Daily News, 1 May 2026 Nigel once again steps in as a saintly father figure with access to a to-die-for sample closet. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 29 Apr. 2026 Robert Kraft is like a father figure to him. Los Angeles Times, 29 Apr. 2026 Shemmeld’s connection to the business dates back to his childhood, when a local ice cream vendor became a mentor and father figure to him. Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 26 Apr. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Father figure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/father%20figure. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

Medical Definition

father figure

noun
fa·​ther figure ˈfät͟h-ər- How to pronounce father figure (audio)
: one often of particular power or influence who serves as an emotional substitute for a father

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