forefathers
word · lemma: forefather
Definition
The people in your family or country who lived long ago, especially those who established traditions or started something important.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly formal or historical; often used with 'our', 'the', or country names (e.g. 'the forefathers of our nation'). Can refer to both familial ancestors and founders of communities or institutions. More common in written language.
Example Sentences
Our forefathers built this village many years ago.
basic
Our forefathers dreamed of a better future for us.
basic
People often say we should honor our forefathers, but sometimes it’s hard to know how.
natural
The constitution was written by the country’s forefathers.
natural
We respect the traditions of our forefathers.
basic
I sometimes wonder what our forefathers would think of life today.
natural