father figure

as in dad
an older man who acts in a paternal role to younger people The coach was a stern, wise father figure to his players.

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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 figure These affordable spots serve love on a plate—perfect for celebrating the dads and father figures who do the most. Essence, 12 June 2025 Father’s Day is a time to honor the incredible fathers and father figures in our lives. Jené Luciani Sena May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 7 June 2025 Hackman’s character, Royal Tenenbaum, is another intense father figure who, like Korda, is both brilliant and terrible. David Sims, The Atlantic, 6 June 2025 But Santi, whose now-estranged dad used to push him too hard on the golf course, doesn’t exactly relish the prospect of having a new father figure to satisfy. Judy Berman, Time, 4 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for father figure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for father figure
Noun
  • My parents met one summer in 1975 at one of my dad’s acoustic shows on the eastern tip of Long Island.
    Brooke Lea Foster, People.com, 30 June 2025
  • The ride portion has distinctly Epcot qualities that are futuristic, educational and a bit dad jokey.
    Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • His father Jason Richardson spent more than a decade in the NBA, including part of two seasons with the Magic (2010-12).
    Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2025
  • Originally designed in 1895 by Sir Henry Peto—whose father built Nelson’s Column—the grounds have been restored and expanded.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 26 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Father figure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/father%20figure. Accessed 7 Jul. 2025.

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