Role Meaning and Definition
Role
Pronunciation
/roʊl/
Part of Speech
Noun or verb
Definition
A role is a part or function assumed or assigned to a person, animal, or thing; a set of behaviors, attitudes, or relations that an individual plays or acts out in a given context or situation.
Examples
- The actor took on the role of Hamlet in the play.
- In the game, each player assumes a role and has specific responsibilities.
Synonyms
- Part
- Function
- Job
- Position
Antonyms
- Static
- Static Position
- Fixed Role
Etymology
The word “role” comes from the Old French “role”, which is derived from the Latin “rola”, meaning “wheel” or “turn”. This refers to the idea of moving up or down a social hierarchy, or having a specific position or function in a particular situation.
Usage Notes
In modern usage, the word “role” is often used to describe a person’s function or position in a particular context, such as a role in a play, a role in a business, or a role in a family. It can also be used to describe an animal’s behavior or function in its natural habitat.
Cultural References
The concept of role has been explored in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television. Examples include William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet”, where the protagonist assumes the role of King and navigates the complexities of royal power, and the TV show “Star Trek”, where the characters embody specific roles as part of the USS Enterprise crew.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Play a role” – to take on a specific function or position
- “Assume a role” – to take on a specific function or position
- “Fill a role” – to take on a specific function or position
Related Words or Phrases
- Part
- Function
- Job
- Position
- Identify
- Imago
Collocations
- Take on a role
- Assume a role
- Fill a role
- Play a role
- Embark on a role
Frequency of Use
The word “role” is a common term in everyday language, and its frequency of use has been increasing in recent years.
Common Misspellings
- Roal
- Rolee
- Rolee