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

Simply by earning his way on to the Lakers roster five years ago, Reaves has been a great role model for everyone who has ever been ignored or shunned or marginalized.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 24, 2026

She didn’t hesitate and said words I will never forget: “I’m not worried. If our children stutter, they will have the best role model in the world.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 22, 2026

"Chris is resilience in abundance. He's a determined man, a family man and everything you would want in a role model."

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

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

It was so interesting to see how we had a girl our own age that is such a role model to us.

From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers

Related Words

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