Meanings
-
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
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
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.
Thesaurus
Etymology
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.