father figure

[fah-ther fig-yer] / ˈfɑ ðər ˌfɪg yər /

NOUN

father substitute

Synonyms

WEAK

father image father surrogate substitute surrogate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

After Spurs lost to Sunderland in his first match in charge, Roberto de Zerbi said his players need a father figure, not a coach.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

But this strong father figure is also punitive in nature; they want to earn his approval to avoid being punished.

From Salon • Feb. 24, 2026

In other words, Gen Z wants a financial father figure.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 18, 2025

“Beam stepped in, stepped in as a father figure, a father role,” Nahshon Wright said.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 17, 2025

Don’t look for some sad tale of the father figure I’m missing or how he left when blah, blah, blah.

From "Sparrow" by Sarah Moon