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

“While we have not been among the datacenter capex theme’s biggest cheerleaders, we think the recent volatility in the stock has created an attractive entry point,” Mitchell wrote.

From Barron's

She was a Girl Scout, cheerleader and the wrestling team’s scorekeeper.

From Los Angeles Times

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