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

The final score was the high school Bluejays 32 to the dads/role models 28. — Paula Wethington, CBS News, 12 Oct. 2026

The few encounters with representatives of the law are exasperating — an officer chastises Soulan for being a bad role model for his students — though not necessarily cut and dried. — Kambole Campbell, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026

It was recently honored with an Albie Award from the Maysles Documentary Center, an award honoring those who inspire, not only through their work, but also through their roles as mentors, role models, and champions of social justice. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 10 Oct. 2026

The initiative aims to demystify finance and show students role models from different backgrounds. — Sam Birchall, Fortune, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for role model

• caudal
• caudle
• dawdle
• twaddle
• waddle
• remodel

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 conflict

—Melody Beattie