Role model Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

role model

noun

: a person whose behavior in a particular role is imitated by others

Examples of role model in a Sentence

Athletes should remember that they are role models.
Recent Examples on the Web Tragedy leads Mariana to question prior certainties about Northern European role models and indeed parenting, as the series, a distinctive family dramedy with an indie air, builds with sense of menace to an unpredictable ending. John Hopewell, Variety, 5 Apr. 2024 Hernandez and Sandstrom are two of 14 Model Coaches honored by the State CIF office for being positive role models in their communities and who have exhibited the traits apparent in the 16 principles of Pursuing Victory with Honor. John Maffei, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Apr. 2024 The Journal Sentinel interviewed four officers of varying rank who spoke about their careers — their challenges, proud moments and the importance of role models. Elliot Hughes, Journal Sentinel, 28 Mar. 2024 The goal of the FINS trips is to give girls a hands-on marine science experience with role models who can inspire them to pursue careers in STEM fields where women are underrepresented. Linda Robertson, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2024 Engage in meaningful conversations, attend networking events and join professional organizations to connect with like-minded individuals who can serve as role models and sources of inspiration. 2. Mike Vietri, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024 Ribicoff, the son of Jewish immigrants from Poland, became a role model and taught him, Mr. Lieberman wrote, the value of compromise over unproductive rigidity. Michael H. Brown, Washington Post, 27 Mar. 2024 Brent added that Blake is a real role model for his younger siblings. Kelsie Gibson, Peoplemag, 25 Mar. 2024 According to Megan Cook, the director of education and outreach at OET, Fellows were chosen from communities historically left out of science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics and ocean fields to elevate role models for learners and cultivate student engagement. Kayla Jackson, The Arizona Republic, 24 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'role model.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of role model was in 1947

Dictionary Entries Near role model

Cite this Entry

“Role model.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/role%20model. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

role model

noun
: a person whose behavior in a certain role is imitated by others

Medical Definition

role model

noun
: a person whose behavior in a particular role is imitated by others
watching our parents and other role models deal with conflictMelody Beattie

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