fatherly

adjective fa·ther·ly \ˈfä-thər-lē\

: of a father : resembling a father : showing the affection or concern of a father

Full Definition of FATHERLY

: of, relating to, or befitting a father <fatherly responsibilities>

: resembling a father (as in affection or care) <a fatherly old man>

— fa·ther·li·ness \-lē-nəs\ noun

— fatherly adverb

See fatherly defined for English-language learners

See fatherly defined for kids

15th century

FATHERLY Defined for Kids

adjective fa·ther·ly \ˈfä-thər-lē\

: of or like a father <He gave me fatherly advice.>

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