cheerleader

[cheer-lee-der]

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.

cheerleader

/ ˈtʃɪəˌliːdə /

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of cheerleader¹

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

Example Sentences

"Ask them what they think, if I am a cheerleader when I am here. I don't think one of the best managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that."

From BBC

"The only way the swag gap wouldn't be problematic was if the partner with less swag was a cheerleader for their partner and proud of them rather than emasculated or resentful."

From BBC

"Don't disqualify yourself from anything. Be your biggest cheerleader. And take so many photos."

From BBC

She is a creative consultant, cultural connector and community cheerleader.

From Los Angeles Times

Even with the move to America, he has remained a cheerleader for a number of charities.

From BBC