grandfather

noun

ˈgran(d)-ˌfä-t͟hər How to pronounce grandfather (audio)
Definition of grandfathernext
as in father
a person who is several generations earlier in an individual's line of descent this tradition has been passed down from our pioneer grandfathers

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of grandfather Kazan‘s grandfather, Academy Award-winning filmmaker Elia Kazan, directed the film adaptation. — Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 2 Sep. 2026 However, King Haakon may have a consecration ceremony like his father and grandfather, which provides a religious blessing. — Stephanie Petit, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026 Nicole Carbone is the daughter of owner Vinnie Carbone, whose grandfather, grandmother and other relatives opened the restaurant in 1938 by the former Bulkeley Stadium in the city’s south end. — Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 31 Aug. 2026 There was a student at camp whose grandfather was a code talker, Shree says. — Liz Wegerer, IEEE Spectrum, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for grandfather
Recent Examples of Synonyms for grandfather
  1. father
  2. ancestor
Noun
  • The Dune star has five older half siblings from her father’s previous relationship.
    — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 2 Sep. 2026
  • His father, William Hawley, said legal action was the only way to get answers.
    — Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of father
Noun
  • Its rise also marks the beginning of the Hindu celebration of Pitru Paksha, during which worshippers perform rites to honor ancestors by offering prayers and food to past members of their families.
    — Anthony Wood, Space.com, 31 Aug. 2026
  • While Qingming focuses primarily on one’s own ancestors, the Hungry Ghost Festival extends offerings to wandering spirits and the unclaimed dead.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of ancestor

Browse Nearby Words

grandeur
grandfather
grandfather clock
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Grandfather.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/grandfather. Accessed 6 Sep. 2026.

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