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

But even as shares of Palantir have fallen 17% since the beginning of the year, the company has become a role model for other software players looking to successfully drive AI adoption.

From MarketWatch • May 4, 2026

Among those who ran with Fraire was Andres Pulgarin, who was a year behind Fraire at Burbank High and saw him as a role model for student athletes looking to improve.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

Current White Ferns captain Melie Kerr described Bates as her "role model" and "one of the greatest cricketers of all time".

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

He is a role model, prophet and genius who breaks the rules and wins anyway.

From Salon • Apr. 20, 2026

The teacher told me that she had heard me speak and wanted me to be a role model for the students and inspire them to do great things.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Related Words

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