plural dads
informal
: a male parent : father entry 1 sense 1
My mom swam and played soccer, my dad surfed, and my brother played basketball.Shannon Griggs
Don't get me wrong, I'm a good dad who maintains a cheerful household and greets parenthood with a smile and an open heart.Ron Harris
often used as a name
When is Dad getting home?
Dad, can you give me a ride?

Examples of dad in a Sentence

Her mom and dad both said she can't go. my dad did most of the cooking for dinner because he usually got home earlier than my mom
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.
In June 2022, Farmer spoke about parenting on an episode of First Class Fatherhood, a podcast focused on dads and fatherhood. Kait Hanson, People.com, 24 July 2025 Frank was a working dad who was struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts at the time. Yola Robert, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025 Brooke has since taken after her dad by joining Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) as an onscreen manager from 2012 to 2013. Randall Colburn, EW.com, 24 July 2025 My dad was an original season ticket holder for all games for well over 20 years until his business was sold. Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for dad

Word History

Etymology

probably baby talk

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dad was in 1533

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dad.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dad. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

dad

noun
informal

More from Merriam-Webster on dad

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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