In a previous post, we provided you with some words to describe a mother. In this one, we’ve listed 10 words that start with A to describe a father to help with your writing.
1. Authentic
Definition
Someone who is genuine in their behavior or emotions.
Examples
“His dad was always authentic. You’d never catch him pretending to be someone else!”
“I will be an authentic dad. No one can put me into a stereotypical box.”
How it Adds Description
The word “authentic” shows that the father doesn’t try to hide who they are. They show their genuine emotions, interests, and style. This might make other characters appreciate them, as they’re unique and not a copy of what a dad should be like. Their “authentic” nature may also make them stand out, especially if they’re prone to wacky clothes or behaviors.
2. Angry
Definition
Someone who has impatience or a strong dislike for something.
Examples
“Papa was never angry. But the situation was starting to make his blood boil.”
“The boy’s father was an angry man, and violent outbursts were frequent in their household.”
How it Adds Description
“Angry” is a great word to use if you want to show your father’s frustration or negative emotions. If your character is angry, others may avoid them in case they start taking their emotions out on them. Alternatively, other characters may try to console the father and calm him down.
3. Attentive
Definition
Someone who pays close attention to details, what’s being said, or what’s being done.
Examples
“Her birthday cake was in her favorite flavor and color. She knew it had to be a gift from her attentive father.”
“My father is attentive! Don’t leave any crumbs on the side, or he’ll know we’ve had a midnight snack!”
How it Adds Description
If you want to show that your fictional father has a keen eye for details, “attentive” is the adjective to use. This implies that the character notices small details, and therefore it’s tough to fool him. He also might use this extra knowledge to surprise other characters, such as buying them their favorite gifts.
4. Ancient
Definition
Someone who has existed for a long time or is very old.
Examples
“Wow, your dad has gray hair. He must be ancient!”
“When he was younger, he always thought his dad was ancient because he knew everything and could answer every question.”
How it Adds Description
You can use “ancient” to show a character’s age or wisdom. This is because the adjective is linked to literal age or to having lots of life experience. Fathers that are “ancient” may give good advice or be visibly older than other characters.
5. Admirable
Definition
Someone who is admired or praised for their qualities or actions.
Examples
“Your dad is admirable, you know. He always does the right thing for your family.”
“He dreamed of becoming an admirable dad. He wanted to be the kind of man that would inspire goodness in others.”
How it Adds Description
The adjective “admirable” shows the father has many good qualities or actions that are noticed and appreciated by others. This could make him a very popular character thanks to his positive nature. Other characters may also rely on him for help, as it’s in his “admirable” nature to assist neighbors with any troubles.
6. Adventurous
Definition
Someone willing to try new things and ideas or take lots of risks.
Examples
“As he looked at old photo albums, it dawned on him that his dad used to be very adventurous.”
“My father is adventurous as can be. He’s always exploring the mountains and ice climbing!”
How it Adds Description
“Adventurous” shows the reader that the father character likes to push boundaries and try different methods. This could include typical adventure activities such as hiking, climbing, or any other high-adrenaline excursions. However, it could also show he makes “adventurous” decisions, such as risky business choices or embarking on spontaneous, spur-of-the-moment journeys.
7. Affectionate
Definition
Someone who shows fondness or love in their behavior and without shame.
Examples
“I wish my father was as affectionate as yours. Mine barely even speaks to me.”
“The teenager’s cheeks burned when his affectionate dad hugged him.”
How it Adds Description
If you want to show your father is a loving or caring character, “affectionate” is an appropriate adjective to use. This signifies that he’s not afraid to show his feelings to his friends and family. Others might enjoy being around him due to these warm and friendly actions.
8. Abrasive
Definition
Someone who’s rude or unkind.
Examples
“The father was known for his abrasive nature, and this only made him act colder to the other parents.”
“If my papa is abrasive, just ignore him. He’s had some bad news today.”
How it Adds Description
Sometimes fathers can be in bad moods, and if your fictional father is being rude or unkind, you can describe them as “abrasive.” This behavior might annoy others, and if the father is extra rude, it might make others dislike him and, in extreme cases, fight him.
9. Aloof
Definition
Someone who keeps to themself and stays away from other people.
Examples
“Everyone wondered why the father was so aloof, but he was never around long enough to find out why.”
“He watched his dad intensely. He noticed that he was much more aloof than the others.”
How it Adds Description
The term “aloof” can be applied to any father who is unfriendly and prefers his own company. For some characters, “aloof” can show an element of shyness. However, it may also signal that they just don’t like the people around them or simply prefer their own company and don’t care for niceties.
10. Annoying
Definition
Someone who makes others feel impatient or slightly irritated.
Examples
“He found his dad rather annoying. But he would never admit it in fear of hurting his feelings.”
“Gosh, your father is so annoying! Can you tell him to be quiet for a moment?”
How it Adds Description
“Annoying” signals that the character is irritating others through his attitude or actions. He could be doing this on purpose, but “annoying” characters may also irritate others by accident. If other characters find the father “annoying,” they might avoid him or ask him to cease his vexing behavior.