Godfather

Godfather

Godfather and godmother have also come into broader usage to refer to a person who has agreed to take a special interest in the upbringing - Christian or not - of a child, and/or has agreed to adopt the child should both parents die. Although largely an honorary position, godparents will sometimes help to finance the education of a child or simply act as a mentor.

God"fa`ther (?), n. [AS. godfaeder. Cf. Gossip.]

A man who becomes sponsor for a child at baptism, and makes himself a surety for its Christian training and instruction.

There shall be for every Male-child to be baptized, when they can be had, two Godfathers and one Godmother; and for every Female, one Godfather and two Godmothers; and Parents shall be admitted as Sponsors, if it is desired. Book of Common Prayer (Prot. Episc. Ch., U. S. ).

© Webster 1913.

God"fa`ther, v. t.

To act as godfather to; to take under one's fostering care.

Burke.

© Webster 1913.