leading man

noun

: an actor who plays the leading male role

Examples of leading man in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Although male players have become more open about their mental-health struggles, the sport’s leading men rarely go on leave. — Josh Levin, The Atlantic, 9 July 2026

Star Morgan Kohan tells EW about getting the chemistry right with both leading men. — Sarah Hearon, Entertainment Weekly, 7 July 2026

The reality is that leading men dictate roles and others follow as needed. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 5 July 2026

Howard Stern and Beth Ostrosky As a longtime friend of the radio host, Kelly Ripa's leading man officiated the 2008 ceremony, which also included a performance by Billy Joel and a raunchy roast delivered by Chevy Chase. — Grace Gavilanes, PEOPLE, 4 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for leading man

• businessman
• canavan
• caravan
• constantan
• dragoman
• fisherman
• handyman
• harmattan
• journeyman
• marianne
• middleman
• minivan

Kids Definition

leading man

noun

: an actor who plays the leading male role in a play or movie