godparent

Everyday

(church) A godparent is a person chosen by a child's family to promise at the child's baptism to help them grow up in the Christian faith, and to be a special adult friend through life. A woman is a godmother; a man is a godfather. tree →

In the lessons

In family life godparents often send birthday presents, come to big events and give advice. In some families they would care for the child if the parents died. In fairy tales a fairy godmother grants wishes (Cinderella). Humanist and non-religious families sometimes choose "guide parents" or "supporting adults". Phrases: be a godparent, my godmother, my godfather, fairy godmother, godchild.

Examples

• My godmother always sends me a book for my birthday. tree →
• Uncle Joe was chosen to be my baby cousin's godparent. tree →
• The godparents held the baby at the font. tree →
• Cinderella's fairy godmother turned a pumpkin into a coach. tree →
• My godfather took me to my first football match. tree →
• Godparents promise to help the child learn about faith. tree →

Note

Countable; one word. The child is a godchild (goddaughter, godson). Not a legal guardian unless chosen in a will. "Godfather" can also mean a crime boss in films — a different use.