Synonyms: sire, forefather, father
Definition: the founder of a family
Usage: keep the faith of our forefathers
Similar words: ancestor, antecedent, ascendant, ascendent, root
Definition: someone from whom you are descended (but usually more remote than a grandparent)
Synonyms: forefather
Definition: person from an earlier time who contributed to the tradition shared by some group
Usage: our forefathers brought forth a great nation
Similar words: predecessor
Definition: one who precedes you in time (as in holding a position or office)