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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
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
Back had gone on to serve as a kind of surrogate father figure for the bright and nettlesome young man.
—Gideon Lewis-Kraus, The New Yorker, 9 Oct. 2024
Ryan was beloved by the hospital staff and fiercely protected and cared for by Dr. Kleiman, who became a friend and father figure to the boy.
—Dana Hunsinger Benbow, The Indianapolis Star, 7 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
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 31 Oct. 2024.
Medical Definition
father figure
noun
fa·ther figure
ˈfät͟h-ər-
: one often of particular power or influence who serves as an emotional substitute for a father
More from Merriam-Webster on father figure
Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for father figure
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