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

The last central bank chief to do so was Alan Greenspan in 1987, under president Ronald Reagan, who Warsh referenced in his speech as a role model.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

"Being a tennis player, being an athlete, you suddenly have a different role. You become a role model for many youngsters."

From BBC • May 19, 2026

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

A former student says he ran middle distances, cross-country, and acted a role model for younger runners until he graduated in 2013.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

It gave me a real positive role model to follow.

From "March Forward, Girl" by Melba Pattillo Beals

Related Words

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