1. without a father; having lost one's father through death or abandonment
2. lacking a father figure or paternal guidance

Examples

• The fatherless child was raised by her mother and grandmother.
• Many fatherless families struggle with financial hardship.
• He grew up fatherless after his father left when he was an infant.
• The organization provides mentorship to fatherless boys in the community.
• Fatherless households face unique challenges in modern society.
• She became fatherless at age twelve when her father passed away.