A person, typically a relative or close friend, who sponsors a child at baptism or religious ceremony and agrees to guide their spiritual development.
From 'god' + 'parent' (Old English 'parent' from Latin 'parens,' from 'parere,' to bring forth). The compound emerged in medieval Christianity as godparents became formalized in baptism ceremonies.
Godparents originally had legal weight equal to actual parents in inheritance and guardianship—this wasn't ceremonial but structural, which is why in some cultures (Spain, Italy) choosing godparents is still deadly serious business.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.