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

Dolly Parton, one of the greatest benefactors to children in world history while also being a role model to those who were without them, had died at 80. — Choire Sicha, CNN Money, 3 Sep. 2026

Over the years, Hinton has been Camblin's department head, mentor, colleague, role model, racquetball partner, and friend. — Gillian Stawiszynski, Cincinnati Enquirer, 1 Sep. 2026

To bridge that gap, Fernandez ensures Indigenous role models are part of the camp. — Liz Wegerer, IEEE Spectrum, 31 Aug. 2026

Heads of state, parents of book recipients, music fans, movie fans and, like me, women who felt blessed to have had such a glamorous role model publicly mourned the loss. — Donna Vickroy, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 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