GRANDFATHER Meaning and
Definition
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A grandfather is a family member who holds a significant role in the extended family structure. Generally, a grandfather is the father of one's parent, belonging to the previous generation. The term is commonly used to refer to the paternal side of the family but can also encompass a maternal grandfather.
A grandfather assumes a special position within the family, often regarded as a figure of respect and wisdom. They typically provide love, support, and guidance to their children and grandchildren, passing down knowledge, experiences, and family traditions. Grandfathers can be seen as the roots of the family tree, as their existence is essential for the continuation of lineage and the bond between generations.
The role of a grandfather transcends biological connections, as individuals not related by blood may also be regarded as grandfathers due to their significant involvement in the family's life. Grandfathers often cherish moments and memories spent with their grandchildren, playing with them, teaching them valuable life lessons, and acting as a source of comfort and advice.
In some cultures, the role of a grandfather might extend to being a decision-maker or a person of authority within the family. However, their primary role is usually that of a mentor and a loving figure. Overall, grandfathers play a crucial part in the family structure, acting as a bridge between generations and leaving a lasting impact on their children's and grandchildren's lives.
Top Common Misspellings for GRANDFATHER *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for GRANDFATHER
Etymology of GRANDFATHER
The word "grandfather" has a straightforward etymology. It is derived from the combination of two words: "grand" and "father".
The term "grand" (Old French: "grant") refers to something large, great, or magnificent. It is often used to indicate something bigger or more significant than the ordinary or traditional form. In this case, it is used to emphasize the generational distance between a person and their father, indicating a higher level of seniority.
The word "father" (Old English: "fæder") refers to the male parent or the male ancestor in a direct line of descent. It specifically signifies the relationship between a person and their biological or legal male parent.
Therefore, when combined, "grandfather" refers to a person who is one's parent's parent and is elevated in generational seniority or importance.
Idioms with the word GRANDFATHER
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(a) grandfather clause
The idiom "(a) grandfather clause" refers to a provision in a new law or rule that exempts certain individuals or entities from complying with it based on their previous status or circumstances. It allows pre-existing conditions to be exempted from new regulations, typically to avoid causing undue hardship or disruption. The term originates from the idea of granting special privileges or exceptions to individuals who held a particular status before the implementation of the law or rule.
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grandfather sm or sth in
The idiom "grandfather sm or sth in" means to exempt or allow something, typically a person, rule, or practice, to continue or be included in a new system or set of rules, even though it may not meet the current requirements or standards. It implies that the previous arrangement or condition is maintained out of respect for tradition or to avoid disrupting existing arrangements.
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grandfather someone or something in
The idiom "grandfather someone or something in" refers to allowing a person or thing to be exempt from new rules, regulations, or requirements, usually due to their existing or previous status. It means to maintain or continue the old arrangements for an individual or item while making others follow the new rules.
Similar spelling words for GRANDFATHER
- granddad,
- grounder,
- grandaunt,
- grand tour,
- grenadian,
- ground rattler,
- Grand Marnier,
- ground fir,
- grenadier,
- Grand Teton,
- ground cherry,
- grandnephew,
- grand mal,
- ground attack,
- grand theft,
- Grand Turk,
- Grandberry,
- grand opera,
- Grande Dame,
- ground water,
- grandmaster,
- ground fire,
- groundnut,
- granderson,
- grandmother,
- grandfield,
- grandstander.
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