cheerleader

American  

[cheer-lee-der] / ˈtʃɪərˌli dər /

noun

1. a person who leads spectators in cheering, usually a member of a team that performs dance, acrobatic, and tumbling routines at sporting events or in competitions with other teams.

2. a person who encourages and openly supports the success of a person or cause.

   Her dad has always been her biggest cheerleader.

   He emerged as a cheerleader for the rights of the incarcerated.

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cheerleader British  

/ ˈtʃɪəˌliːdə /

noun

1. a person who leads a crowd in formal cheers, esp at sports events

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Etymology

Origin of cheerleader

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05; cheer + leader

Example Sentences

Holdorff Polhill has become a vocal cheerleader for rebuilding, saying people often hear about all of the problems: the struggles with insurance, the permitting delays, the steep construction costs.

From Los Angeles Times

In addition to boasting an impressive career as a cheerleader, Hudson also holds an $8 million property portfolio, forging the path for her to become a real estate mogul.

From MarketWatch

On Tuesday, Turner, Rams staff members and cheerleaders, in conjunction with South L.A. nonprofit A Place Called Home, will serve meals and distribute 400 turkeys and Thanksgiving supplies to families in need.

From Los Angeles Times

“I’ve always had a lot of cheerleaders for me to do music,” Hudson replies, sheepishly.

From Los Angeles Times

Long bear markets accompanied by a recession discredit the last boom’s wildest themes and its cheerleaders.

From The Wall Street Journal