How Do You Spell FOREFATHER?

Pronunciation: [fˈɔːfɑːðə] (IPA)

The word "forefather" is spelled with four syllables: /fɔː(r)ˈfɑːðə(r)/. The first syllable is pronounced with an "or" sound, as in "more" or "door". The second syllable emphasizes the "fah" sound, which rhymes with "saw". The third syllable includes the "th" sound and the shortened "uh" vowel sound, as in "but". The final syllable emphasizes the "ther" sound, which rhymes with "bother" or "other". "Forefather" refers to a male ancestor or a predecessor who came before in time or importance.

FOREFATHER Meaning and Definition

1. Forefather, noun.

   1. A term used to refer to a male ancestor, particularly one who lived in the past and is considered to be the founder or originator of a family, tribe, nation, or culture. A forefather is a person who precedes the current generation and played a significant role in shaping the heritage, customs, and traditions of their descendants. They are regarded with respect and admiration for their contributions and often serve as a source of inspiration and guidance.

   2. In a broader sense, the term "forefather" can also be applied to individuals who played a pioneering role or established fundamental principles in a particular discipline or field. These individuals are esteemed for their pioneering spirit, innovative ideas, and transformative impact on society. For instance, in the realm of science, great scientists such as Isaac Newton or Albert Einstein are considered forefathers because their groundbreaking discoveries and theories laid the foundation for subsequent advancements in the field.

   3. Figuratively, "forefather" can be used to describe any person or group of people who set the stage or paved the way for future developments or achievements in any aspect of life, be it social, political, cultural, or ideological. It signifies individuals who had a profound influence on the course of history and are recognized as the primary architects of the circumstances or movements that followed.

   In conclusion, "forefather" is a term that primarily refers to an esteemed male ancestor who played a significant role in shaping the heritage of their descendants, but can also be expanded to include pioneering individuals in various disciplines or those who laid the groundwork for future achievements.

2. An ancestor.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for FOREFATHER *

• forfather 100%

* 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 FOREFATHER

• forerfathers
• dorefather
• corefather
• vorefather
• forefither
• forefether
• foregathere
• foregatherd
• foremothee
• portwather
• forfaither
• Fireeather

Etymology of FOREFATHER

The word "forefather" originated from Old English and can be traced back to the combination of two words: "fore" and "fæder".

The word "fore" is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "fura", which means "before" or "in front of". It is often used as a prefix to indicate something that comes before or precedes. "Fore" has cognates in various other Germanic languages.

The second component of "forefather", "fæder", is the Old English word for "father", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "fader".

Therefore, "forefather" signifies an individual who is a predecessor or ancestor, particularly a male progenitor.

Similar spelling words for FOREFATHER

• forefather-mother,
• forefather-mothers,
• forefoot.

Plural form of FOREFATHER is FOREFATHERS