Godfather

Quick meaning: Godfather is a noun meaning (figurative) Someone who plays a key role in fostering the development of something.

Meaning

(figurative) Someone who plays a key role in fostering the development of something.

More Meanings

1. (crime) A mafia leader.
2. A small post which is used in repairing a fence. For instance attached to and supporting an existing broken fence post.
3. (transitive, often figuratively) To act as godfather or guardian to.
4. (Christianity) A man present at the christening of a baby who promises to help raise the child in a Christian manner; a male godparent who sponsors the baptism of a child.

Example Sentences

But months before, he'd agreed to godfather the premiere of The Godfather.

[…]recalls Henrik Stiesdal, sometimes known as the “godfather” of the wind industry for his influential turbine inventions […].

“They are trying to kill the messenger with the bad news, it’s crazy,” said Dr James Hansen, known as the godfather of climate science and previously director of Giss for more than 30 years.

The man often touted as the godfather of AI has quit Google, citing concerns over the flood of misinformation, the possibility for AI to upend the job market, and the “existential risk” posed by the creation of a true digital intelligence.

Word Forms

• godfathers
• godfathering
• godfathered

Synonyms for godfather

Depending on context, synonyms include godpa.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include parent, buddy, mentor, supporter, patron, custodian.

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