parrain

Parrain is a French noun meaning a male godparent. In Catholic baptism, the parrain serves as a sponsor who, together with the marraine (the godmother), undertakes to uphold the child’s baptismal promises and support their religious upbringing. The parrain is often involved in the ceremony, presenting the child, and commits to guiding the child in faith. A godparent is not typically the child’s legal guardian; guardianship is a separate responsibility handled by parents or the state, if applicable. Typical criteria for a godparent include being a baptized and confirmed Catholic, being of a certain age (often at least 16), and living a life in line with Catholic teachings; requirements can vary by parish.

Beyond baptism, parrain can refer more generally to a sponsor or patron of a person, event, or organization. The related term parrainage denotes sponsorship or mentorship arrangements, which may involve financial support, advocacy, or counsel.

In culture and media, parrain is widely used to translate “godfather” in French, notably in the title Le Parrain for the film The Godfather. The word can also carry connotations of a powerful go-between or protector in informal usage, sometimes echoing the notion of a mafia “don,” though such associations depend on context and should be understood as figurative.

Gender and related forms: the feminine is marraine, and the plural is parrains. The concept is present across French-speaking communities with variations in religious and civil practice.