Holy Father

American

noun

Roman Catholic Church.

a title of the pope.

Holy Father British

noun

RC Church a title of the pope

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of Holy Father

late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“We believe the Holy Father will shine a spotlight on the good works of the Church, including our work helping communities live together in peace, improve healthcare, and increase education, justice and peace.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

The Holy Father specifically highlighted the suffering of civilians in Gaza, calling for an immediate end to violence and renewed efforts toward peace.

From Salon • Dec. 25, 2025

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Farrell’s statement released by the Vatican read.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2025

He added: "We're praying for the Holy Father that he is returned to full health."

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2025

And one man said that he would give it as a present to the Holy Father in Rome.

From "The Pearl" by John Steinbeck

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023