cheerleader

noun

cheer·​lead·​er ˈchir-ˌlē-dər 

: one that calls for and directs organized cheering (as at a football game)

cheerlead

ˈchir-ˌlēd 

verb, transitive + intransitive

cheerleading

ˈchir-ˌlē-diŋ 

noun

Examples of cheerleader in a Sentence

a politician who is a cheerleader for the government's new economic plan

Recent Examples on the Web

Celebrities including Cameron Diaz, Ciara, Jenna Dewan and Meryl Streep were all cheerleaders in their younger days, showing team spirit at a wide range of ages — from grade to high school. — Grace Gavilanes, PEOPLE, 14 July 2026

That distinction belongs to her star-making turn as the cheerleader object of middle-aged Kevin Spacey’s desires in the Oscar-winning American Beauty. — Gwen Ihnat, Entertainment Weekly, 9 July 2026

While the cast racked up numerous nominations, two actors ended up being their own best cheerleaders. — ABC News, 8 July 2026

Not everyone in 2026 may be excited with a flight simulator that serves as a cheerleader for America. — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cheerleader

• proofreader
• ringleader
• bleeder
• breeder
• feeder
• leader
• lieder
• meader
• pleader
• reader
• reeder
• seeder

Kids Definition

cheerleader

noun

cheer·​lead·​er ˈchi(ə)r-ˌlēd-ər 

: a person who leads organized cheering (as at a football or basketball game)

cheerlead

-ˌlēd 

verb

cheerleading

-ˌlē-diŋ 

noun