role model

American  

[rohl mod-l] / ˈroʊl ˌmɒd l /

noun

1. a person whose behavior, example, or success is or can be emulated by others, especially by younger people.

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role model British  

noun

1. a person regarded by others, esp younger people, as a good example to follow

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role model Cultural  

1. A person who serves as an example of the values, attitudes, and behaviors associated with a role. For example, a father is a role model for his sons. Role models can also be persons who distinguish themselves in such a way that others admire and want to emulate them. For example, a woman who becomes a successful brain surgeon or airline pilot can be described as a role model for other women.

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Etymology

Origin of role model

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Greene, the No. 2 draft pick of the Cincinnati Reds in 2017, has become a member of the team’s starting rotation while continuing to serve as a role model for others.

From Los Angeles Times

"Leo is a very passionate and reliable person and he's a role model for all of us."

From BBC

Standing in the corridors of power, she advocated for boxing as a tool for social change, sharing her own journey from insecure schoolgirl to a role model for the next generation.

From BBC

"We have become, by our own success, a role model... a regional power. Is this our fault?" said Abdulla, the Emirati professor.

From Barron's

Being born in a country without tennis pedigree means there is usually a lack of financial support from their federation and fewer role models to follow into the game.

From BBC

Related Words

• example
• exemplar
• good example
• hero
• heroine
• idol
• mentor
• superstar