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.

Anthony Head, the British television actor who had roles in “Ted Lasso,” “Merlin” and most notably father figure Rupert Giles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” has died, his family announced Friday.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026

He also lacked a father figure growing up, as his father was not involved in raising him.

From MarketWatch • May 4, 2026

Army colonel Lee Shaw, her team’s father figure, in the monster realm they call Axis Mundi.

From Salon • Mar. 20, 2026

"Mauricio was like a father figure," recalls ex-PSG defender Didier Domi.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

Both she and the prince had grown up under strict, unforgiving fathers—well, father figure in her case.

From "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas