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Godparent: meaning, definitions and examples

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godparent

 

[ ˈɡɒdˌpɛərənt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious relationship

A godparent is a person who sponsors a child's baptism and takes on a role of guidance and support in the child's spiritual life. This relationship often extends beyond religious rituals, involving a lifelong commitment to the child's well-being and moral upbringing.

Synonyms

guardian, mentor, sponsor

Examples of usage

  • She asked her sister to be the godparent of her baby.
  • Many cultures have special ceremonies for choosing godparents.
  • As a godparent, he felt a strong responsibility toward his godchild.
Context #2 | Noun

family role

A godparent can also refer to someone who acts as a mentor or guiding figure in someone's life, even outside the context of formal religious ceremonies. This role often includes providing advice, emotional support, and a sense of connection for the individual.

Synonyms

advisor, guide, role model

Examples of usage

  • He served as a godparent, offering wisdom and guidance.
  • In many families, a close friend acts as a godparent when needed.
  • Being a godparent means being there for significant life moments.

Translations

Translations of the word "godparent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 padrinho

🇮🇳 गॉडपैरेंट

🇩🇪 Pate

🇮🇩 wali

🇺🇦 хрещений батько

🇵🇱 chrzestny

🇯🇵 ゴッドペアレント

🇫🇷 parent parrain

🇪🇸 padrino

🇹🇷 vaftiz ebeveyn

🇰🇷 대부

🇸🇦 والد روحي

🇨🇿 kmotr

🇸🇰 krstný

🇨🇳 教父

🇸🇮 krstni oče

🇮🇸 skírnarfaðir

🇰🇿 құдай әке

🇬🇪 ქორწინების მამა

🇦🇿 xristian ata

🇲🇽 padrino

Etymology

The term 'godparent' has its roots in the Old English word 'godfæder', which translates directly to 'godfather'. The concept originated from early Christian practices where individuals were selected to take on the responsibility of guiding a child's upbringing in the faith. The role of a godparent has evolved over time, encompassing various cultural and religious meanings. In many Christian traditions, a godparent is someone who helps ensure the spiritual growth and moral education of a child, while also serving as a legal guardian in some cases. The female equivalent, 'godmother', emerged in parallel with the male role. The idea of godparenting has spread beyond Christianity, taking on significant roles in various cultural practices where elder figures mentor and support the younger generation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,129, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.