role

[ rohl ]

noun

1. a part or character played by an actor or actress.
2. proper or customary function:

   the role of religion in society.

   Synonyms: duty, responsibility, position, function, capacity, part, character

3. the function assumed by a person or thing in a given action or process:

   Schools offer few practical tools to help students explore their role in shaping the future.

4. Sociology. the rights, obligations, and expected behavior patterns associated with a particular social status:

   When studying child development, it was critical to study the father's role.

role

/ rəʊl /

noun

1. a part or character in a play, film, etc, to be played by an actor or actress
2. psychol the part played by a person in a particular social setting, influenced by his expectation of what is appropriate
3. usual or customary function

   what is his role in the organization?

Other Words From

• mul·ti·role adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of role¹

First recorded in 1600–10; from French rôle “roll (of paper containing the actor's part)”; roll

Word History and Origins

Origin of role¹

C17: from French rôle roll , an actor's script

Example Sentences

Researchers have long noted that stress plays a significant role in exacerbating IBD symptoms, and some have even described ulcerative colitis as psychosomatic.

From Science Daily

The authors offer clear advice to scientists, policymakers, and universities: strengthen the role of design in delta management.

From Science Daily

Whether as building blocks, transport systems, enzymes, or antibodies, proteins play a vital role in our bodies.

From Science Daily

Play has a role in building tolerance, cohesion, bonding, and cooperation.

From Science Daily

"Our results suggest that biological factors may play a more substantial role in driving these sleep differences than previously recognized."

From Science Daily

Related Words

• act
• business
• job
• part
• position
• post
• task