deadbeat dad

[ ded-beet dad ]

noun

, Informal.

1. a father who neglects his responsibilities as a parent, especially one who does not pay child support:

   The deadbeat dad was forced to pay a lump sum of over $10,000 to settle the case.

Word History and Origins

Origin of deadbeat dad¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

To his four children, he’s a deadbeat dad whose absence destroyed their mother.

From Washington Post

Though the Chargers left San Diego for Los Angeles in 2017 — abandoning its fans for another family like a deadbeat dad — much of the former stadium’s materials will be recycled back into the San Diego State University’s Aztec stadium.

From Voice of San Diego

Dad hasn't been in the picture since she was about a year old — he's a deadbeat dad.

From Washington Post

When marriages fail, the deadbeat dad is the norm in American society, not the exception.

From The Daily Beast