role model

American  

[rohl mod-l] / ˈroʊl ˌmɒd l /

noun

• role models
  plural

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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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• role models
  plural

Etymology

Origin of role model

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

role model

"He's been a role model and poster boy for British boxing for years," Fury, 38, said of Joshua.

From BBC ● Sep. 30, 2026

“She’s a role model for taking your legacy seriously.”

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 28, 2026

Twenty years later, I wrote a story with the headline: Quincy Watts is a role model for what is possible.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 23, 2026

In turn, his grandsons see a role model of active and healthy aging.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 28, 2026

That little girl from the department store deserved a role model.

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad

Related Words

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