godmother

noun

god·​moth·​er ˈgäd-ˌmə-t͟hər How to pronounce godmother (audio)
: a woman who sponsors a person at baptism

Examples of godmother in a Sentence

Her aunt is also her godmother.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Leo is a former academic now working for her godmother, a local real estate mogul. — Diya Chacko, Oc Register, 18 May 2026 The singer said fans would sometimes send her direct messages with information, while others reached out to her godmother. — Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026 Swift is godmother to all four of Lively's children—daughters James, Inez, and Betty and son Olin. — Michael Nied, InStyle, 4 July 2026 The child's godmother spoke exclusively with CBS News New York. — Mahsa Saeidi, CBS News, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for godmother

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of godmother was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing godmother

Rhymes for godmother

See All Rhymes for godmother

Browse Nearby Words

God-manhood
godmother
Godolphin
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Godmother.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/godmother. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

godmother

noun
god·​moth·​er ˈgäd-ˌmət͟h-ər How to pronounce godmother (audio)
also ˈgȯd-
: a female sponsor at baptism

More from Merriam-Webster on godmother

Nglish: Translation of godmother for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about godmother

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