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

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

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 28, 2026

But Mr. Tommasini also utilizes more recent academic scholarship, as well as personal interviews with individuals such as the opera star Leontyne Price, who viewed Anderson as a role model.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 18, 2026

Cyndi Lauper said it was "hard for me to imagine the world without Dolly," noting she was a "role model for all of us" who made her constantly stop to think: "What would Dolly do?"

From BBC ● Aug. 26, 2026

“Just as he was a role model for black politicians, he also became one of the most respected black judges in California, whom lawyers and judges continue to emulate,” the university said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 5, 2026

Your dad isn’t the person I’d choose as a role model, just for what it’s worth.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison

Related Words

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