stepfather

noun

step·​fa·​ther ˈstep-ˌfä-t͟hər 

: the husband of one's parent when distinct from one's natural or legal father

Examples of stepfather in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Shane recorded a run of singles and a stunning live album on Caravan Records, in 1967, but had retired from music by the early nineteen-seventies, spending time taking care of her ailing mother and stepfather in Nashville. —Hanif Abdurraqib, New Yorker, 6 Feb. 2026

The stepbrother of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, who was found dead aboard a Carnival Cruise ship in November, was arrested and charged this week in connection with the case, according to Anna Kepner's father, who is the stepfather of the suspect. —Doug Lantz, ABC News, 6 Feb. 2026

Zecca’s stepfather, Dog, whose legal name is Duane Chapman, married Francie Chapman in 2021. —Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 4 Feb. 2026

Berry took after both his biological father and stepfather and became a musician, per his website. —Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 3 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for stepfather

• forefather
• godfather
• grandfather
• bother
• father

Kids Definition

stepfather

noun

step·​fa·​ther ˈstep-ˌfät͟h-ər 

: the husband of one's mother when distinct from one's natural or legal father