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

The Rams have made several trips to Australia over the years, ranging from Super Bowl trophy tours and a flag football event to visits by mascot Rampage and the Rams cheerleaders. — Jessica Golden, CNBC, 9 Sep. 2026

The Western Hills High School cheerleader was preparing to attend the school’s Valentine’s Day dance with her boyfriend, football team quarterback Rodney McCoy. — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Sep. 2026

Adopted by its mischievous residents, the young men find coaches, cheerleaders, and family, discovering that belonging matters more than winning. — Alex Ritman, Variety, 8 Sep. 2026

Adopted by its mischievous residents, the young men find coaches, cheerleaders and family, discovering that belonging matters more than winning. — Diana Lodderhose, Deadline, 8 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

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