father figure

noun

: 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.
Who was Bill Toney? Toney was the oldest of four siblings and was became a father figure to his younger brothers and sister when their own dad died too young, said DeeDee Toney-Horen, Toney's widow. Amanda Lee Myers, USA Today, 21 May 2025 Brighton’s 15-year-old attacking star from a family of footballers The youngster, who is Jack Hinshelwood's cousin, is having a huge impact at youth-team level and holding his own against older players Jack has been a father figure to Harry, who is a versatile attacker. Andy Naylor, New York Times, 21 May 2025 And for all the other father figures in your life—like your grandpa, stepdad, and brothers—multi-tool gadgets and cozy robes never fail to impress. Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 12 May 2025 Similarly to the zodiac sign Capricorn, Mr. Feeny educates every character by acting more like a father figure. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 5 May 2025 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 4 Jun. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on father figure

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