1. a male godparent who sponsors a child at baptism and takes responsibility for the child’s religious education
2. a man who is regarded as the founder or originator of something
3. the head of a crime family or criminal organization
Usage: informal

1. to act as a godfather to someone or something; to sponsor or support the development of

Examples

• My uncle served as my godfather at my christening.
• He is considered the godfather of modern jazz.
• The movie portrayed the godfather as a powerful but ruthless leader.
• She asked her brother to godfather her new business venture.
• The godfather gave his godson advice about life.
• Many consider him the godfather of the environmental movement.
• The tech entrepreneur godfathered several successful startups.