as in dads
an older man who acts in a paternal role to younger people
The coach was a stern, wise father figure to his players.
Related Words
Relevance
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of father figures
This year’s event invites fathers and father figures to treat their daughters to a dazzling night inspired by the jazz age.
—
Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Aug. 2025
Not the revenge thing, but the part about sons emulating their fathers (or father figures).
—Genevieve Koski, Vulture, 4 Aug. 2025
Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Aug. 2025
Not the revenge thing, but the part about sons emulating their fathers (or father figures).
—Genevieve Koski, Vulture, 4 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for father figures
Noun
-
Getting in community with other dads in the same stage of life support creates a sense of normalcy, emotional support, and relief.—
Essence,
Essence,
29 Aug. 2025
-
Like many proud dads in the early 2000s, Cooper Manning often whipped out the camcorder to document his three children — May, Arch and Heid — growing up.—
Grace Raynor,
New York Times,
20 Aug. 2025
Noun
-
These are men who grew up with fathers who ignored menopause.—
Laura Trujillo,
USA Today,
4 Sep. 2025
-
Their conversation was not about the character but about fathers.—
Gerrad Hall,
Entertainment Weekly,
4 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Father figures.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/father%20figures. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share