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

Tracy is very much the father figure, a giant beating heart on a scooter rolling around with a radio and making everybody happy. — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 10 Nov. 2026

Slafter's husband is her son's father figure and has offered to adopt him. — Olivia Young, CBS News, 10 Nov. 2026

Gang leaders in urban communities, like warlords in conflict zones, often position themselves as providers, protectors, mentors and father figures. — Charles Wratto, The Conversation, 27 Oct. 2026

My beloved friend, father figure, musical hero and mentor, Mike Love, is facing serious health challenges. — Chris Willman, Variety, 12 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for father figure

• reconfigure
• configure
• disfigure
• prefigure

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