godfather

Pluralgodfathers

Formsgodfathers, godfathering, godfathered

1. 1
   nouncountable

   A man who promises at a baby's baptism to help raise the child in the Christian faith.

   Like a backup parent who helps look after a child's faith.

   Her godfather promised to guide her in the faith.

   Two godfathers were chosen for the twins' christening.

   Similarsponsor, godparent

   Oppositegodmother

   Note
2. 2
   nouncountable

   The head of a mafia family or organized crime group.

   Like the top boss everyone in the gang must obey.

   The godfather ordered his men to stay quiet.

   Police finally arrested the aging godfather last spring.

   Similardon, boss, kingpin, capo

   Note
3. 3
   nounfigurativelycountable

   A person who helped start something important and helped it grow.

   Like the person who plants a tree that later grows huge.

   He is often called the godfather of modern jazz.

   She became the godfather of the city's tech scene.

   Similarfather, founder, pioneer, originator

   Note
4. 4
   verbfigurativelytransitive

   To act as a guardian who helps guide and support someone or something.

   Like an older friend who guides a beginner step by step.

   He agreed to godfather the new community project.

   She godfathered the young startup through its first year.

   Similarmentor, sponsor, nurture, champion, shepherd

   Note
5. 5
   nouncountable

   A short post fixed next to a broken fence post to hold it up.

   Like a splint that holds a broken bone steady.

   The farmer added a godfather to hold up the leaning post.

   A small godfather kept the broken fence standing through winter.

   Similarbrace

Showing meanings only. Show all 5