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View synonyms for role

role

Rarely rôle

[rohl]

noun

  1. a part or character played by an actor or actress.

  2. proper or customary function.

    the role of religion in society.

  3. the function assumed by a person or thing in a given action or process.

    Schools offer few practical tools to help students explore their role in shaping the future.

  4. Sociology.,  the rights, obligations, and expected behavior patterns associated with a particular social status.

    When studying child development, it was critical to study the father's role.



role

/ rəʊl /

noun

  1. a part or character in a play, film, etc, to be played by an actor or actress

  2. psychol the part played by a person in a particular social setting, influenced by his expectation of what is appropriate

  3. usual or customary function

    what is his role in the organization?

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • multirole adjective
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Word History and Origins

Origin of role1

First recorded in 1600–10; from French rôle “roll (of paper containing the actor's part)”; roll
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Word History and Origins

Origin of role1

C17: from French rôle roll , an actor's script
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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As the biggest international donor to the Palestinians, the EU is also expected to play a role in helping cover the cost of reconstruction.

Read more on Barron's

“The role of the police is to ensure all football fans can enjoy the game, without fear of violence or intimidation,” he said.

“Journalism’s role is to ask questions, even on delicate topics, with respect and responsibility.”

Read more on Salon

Steve Reed, who took over the housing role following Rayner's resignation last month, then requested a further delay to 10 December.

Read more on BBC

“I believe people believe they’re seeing John,” says Catherine O’Hara, “when they see him in any role.”

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Rolandrole conflict