A godson is a boy or man for whom someone has agreed to serve as a godparent, taking on a special role in his religious and moral upbringing. In Christian traditions, when a baby is baptized, the parents choose godparents who promise to help guide the child in their faith. If that child is male, he becomes the godparent's godson.

The relationship creates a lasting bond beyond biology. Your godson might be your nephew, your best friend's son, or a child from your church community. Godparents often give guidance, support, and encouragement throughout their godson's life, attending important milestones like graduations and celebrations.

The word comes from religious tradition, but the relationship can grow into something deeper. A godparent might be someone a godson turns to for advice, someone who remembers his birthday every year, or simply another caring adult in his corner. The female equivalent is goddaughter, and together they're called godchildren.