father figures

plural of father figure
as in dads
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 figures In the immediate aftermath of Wood's death, Gregson Wagner said the two father figures in her life — her biological father, British film producer Richard Gregson, and her stepfather, actor Robert Wagner — came together to support her. — Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 8 Oct. 2026 Neill played dashing heroes, sinister villains (see The Piano), authority figures, famous figures, and father figures. — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 13 July 2026 The momager, 70, marked the holiday on Sunday, June 21, by sharing a sweet photo collage featuring all the father figures in her life. — Clare Fisher, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026 Happy Father’s Day weekend to all of the fathers and father figures (but not in a George Michael way). — Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 19 June 2026 There will be live performances, local vendors, free family activities and special recognition for father figures in the community. — Felicity Abbott, CBS News, 16 June 2026 Submitted here is an abundance of options, from brunch to burgers to bowling and more, to honor and spoil the father figures in your tribe. — Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 June 2026 In Spokane, Washington, Sonora Smart Dodd organized the first Father’s Day in the United States, one that recognized her Civil War veteran dad who raised her, as well as other father figures. — USA Today, 2 June 2026 Of course, Father’s Day brunch ideas must go beyond casual weekday toast and cereal, because the fathers and father figures in our lives deserve a little extra effort. — Hannah Lee Leidy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for father figures
Noun
  • One Swedish study showed that flexibility within paternal leave policies, such as allowing new dads to take intermittent time off after the birth of a child, helped reduce the incidence of maternal postpartum health complications.
    — Megan Kuykendoll, The Conversation, 28 Sep. 2026
  • Seeing these two girl dads tear up about walking their babies down the aisle, the passage of time, and the inviolate personhood of their daughters was tender and precious.
    — Bethy Squires, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Other networks have been established for working fathers, LGBTQ+ employees, and early-career staff, which were established to give younger employees a greater say in their career development and opportunities to communicate with leadership.
    — Sam Birchall, Fortune, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Architect Addison Mizner, who gave Worth Avenue its shape and character, and Paris Singer, son of sewing-machine entrepreneur Isaac Merritt Singer, were the fathers of the avenue.
    — Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 7 Oct. 2026

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“Father figures.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/father%20figures. Accessed 10 Oct. 2026.

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