godfather

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a male godparent who sponsors a child's baptism and traditionally supports the child's religious upbringing

   Her godfather stood beside the family during the baptism.

2. 2
   noun

   a man regarded as the founder, chief promoter, or influential mentor of a field or movement

   The historian called him the godfather of modern photojournalism.

3. 3
   noun

   a senior or powerful leader in a criminal organization, especially the Mafia

   Prosecutors described the aging boss as the godfather of the crime family.

From Middle English godfader, from Old English godfæder, literally god + father, for a man who sponsors a child's baptism and spiritual upbringing. The later senses for an influential founder, patron, or crime boss extend the ideas of paternal guidance, sponsorship, and authority.

Topics

External links

• Google Images
• Cambridge Dictionary
• Wiktionary