godparent: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2formal / semi-formal
Quick answer
What does “godparent” mean?
A person who sponsors a child at baptism or christening, taking responsibility for their religious upbringing.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who sponsors a child at baptism or christening, taking responsibility for their religious upbringing.
A person who assumes a supportive, mentoring, or guardian-like role in someone's life, often informally and not necessarily in a religious context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major differences in meaning. The term 'sponsor' might be slightly more common in some formal religious contexts in the US.
Connotations
Similar connotations of duty, support, and lifelong connection in both varieties.
Frequency
Comparably frequent in both varieties, though potentially more common in historically Catholic countries/regions.
Grammar
How to Use “godparent” in a Sentence
[Person X] is the godparent of [Person Y].[Person X] asked [Person Y] to be their child's godparent.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “godparent” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He has a godparent-like influence on the boy.
- The godparent relationship is important to them.
American English
- She has a godparent-type role in his life.
- They discussed their godparent responsibilities.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Used in religious studies, anthropology, and sociology when discussing kinship, ritual, or social structures.
Everyday
Discussing family friends, baptism/christening ceremonies, and informal mentoring relationships.
Technical
In canon law or theological contexts, refers to a person with specific sacramental responsibilities.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “godparent”
- Using 'godparent' as a verb (rare and non-standard). Confusing with 'guardian' (legal role). Plural: 'godparents' (not gods-parent).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Traditionally, no, as the role is religious. However, in modern secular contexts, people sometimes use the title informally for a special mentor.
A godparent's role is primarily spiritual and supportive. A guardian is a legal appointment with responsibility for a child's care and welfare.
It varies by denomination. Traditionally, Christian children have two (one male, one female), but some traditions allow one, two, or even more.
No. While popularised by films, the original and primary meaning is the male equivalent of a godparent. Context makes the meaning clear.
A person who sponsors a child at baptism or christening, taking responsibility for their religious upbringing.
Godparent is usually formal / semi-formal in register.
Godparent: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡɒdˌpeərənt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡɑːdˌperənt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “My godfather/godmother! (rare exclamation)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'A parent-like figure sponsored by God' at a religious ceremony.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOCIAL/SPIRITUAL SUPPORT IS PARENTHOOD.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary, traditional role of a godparent?