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 The Penguin becomes Victor’s boss, mentor and father figure, mirroring Batman’s relationship with Robin. Dani Di Placido, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 Trump is in desperate need of a father figure, and with a father like Fred Trump (Martin Donovan), who wouldn’t be? Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 9 Oct. 2024 Over the past 22 years, Doug has not only been a mentor in the wine business but has also acted as a de facto father figure. Noel Burgess, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024 But he was still known as a father figure to the group. Ashok Sharma, Los Angeles Times, 10 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for father figure 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'father figure.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of father figure was in 1916

Dictionary Entries Near father figure

Cite this Entry

“Father figure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/father%20figure. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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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