Definition of "godfather" in English

noun

1. (Christianity) A man present at the christening of a baby who promises to help raise the child in a Christian manner; a male godparent who sponsors the baptism of a child.

2. (figurative) Someone who plays a key role in fostering the development of something.

3. (crime) A mafia leader.

4. A small post which is used in repairing a fence. For instance attached to and supporting an existing broken fence post.

verb

1. (transitive, often figuratively) To act as godfather or guardian to.