role model — A person looked to by others as an example to be imitated
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: A person looked to by others as an example to be imitated
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈroʊl ˈmɑːdl/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother is my role model because she can text faster than teenagers while knitting a sweater.
- The CEO became a role model for work-life balance when she started bringing her cat to board meetings.
- Teachers often serve as role models for their students' academic and personal development.
role model
NOUN[/ˈroʊl ˈmɑːdl/]
A person looked to by others as an example to be imitated

The young gymnast watches her coach perform — her role model in every move.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This compound term emerged in mid-20th century sociology and psychology literature. It combines 'role' (from Old French 'rolle', meaning a part played or function assumed) and 'model' (from Latin 'modellus', meaning a pattern or example to follow). The phrase denotes a person whose behavior, achievements, or character serve as a pattern worthy of imitation.
Breakdown
role (from Old French rolle, meaning an assumed function or part) + model (from Latin modellus, meaning a pattern or exemplar to be followed).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandmother is my role model because she can text faster than teenagers while knitting a sweater.”
“The CEO became a role model for work-life balance when she started bringing her cat to board meetings.”
“Teachers often serve as role models for their students' academic and personal development.”
“Many young athletes consider Olympic champions as their ultimate role models.”
📚Related Words
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