role

noun

ˈrōl How to pronounce role (audio)
variants also rôle
Definition of rolenext
as in purpose
the action for which a person or thing is specially fitted or used or for which a thing exists studying the role of sunlight in the body's production of vitamin D

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of role All these benefits show that the viruses play a vital role in maintaining the nodule field ecosystem. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 14 Oct. 2026 Much of the show’s core cast will return, with Dunham reprising her role as Hannah, Allison Williams as Marnie, Jemima Kirke as Jessa, Zosia Mamet as Shoshanna, and Andrew Rannells as Elijah. — Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 13 Oct. 2026 Eisenberg turned down the role, despite, as Sorkin told Vanity Fair back in June, his having spent a three-day weekend trying to persuade Eisenberg into it. — Antonia Blyth, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2026 Max Hollein was appointed to that role in 2018, and by 2020, working together, the two leaders had balanced the budget. — Hilarie M. Sheets, ARTnews.com, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for role
Recent Examples of Synonyms for role
  1. purpose
  2. task
  3. job
  4. function
  5. part
Noun
  • On a blistering surprise EP, Deafheaven find the vicious attack and grandiose drama of symphonic black metal perfectly suited to their purposes.
    — Patrick Lyons, Pitchfork, 13 Oct. 2026
  • Aside from being part of the salon decor, the sculpture’s purpose, Ingram explained, is to introduce Vero’s service to his clientele.
    — Ari Stark, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of purpose
Noun
  • This includes selecting suitable cutting tools, refining machining procedures, and incorporating robotic arms into assembly tasks.
    — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Their unit at first takes its task so non-seriously that in Ep.
    — John Hopewell, Variety, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of task
Noun
  • The protection of American jobs justified the chains of bondage, or so the argument went.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Was Sarandos courting Bloys for a top job at the streamer, perhaps to take the job then held by Bajaria?
    — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of job
Noun
  • These functions extend the partnership beyond keeping a drone connected to its operator.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 16 Oct. 2026
  • The quick start guide is helpful for getting the microwave ready to use, while a more extensive booklet provides the nitty-gritty details on settings and modes like the sophisticated sensor-reheating functions (more on that later).
    — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of function
Noun
  • Explore See latest videos, charts and news Performing as part of his 30-night residency at the New York venue, Styles paused to address the crowd before the tribute.
    — Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 17 Oct. 2026
  • Ukraine's greatest fear is that the Chinese government could severely restrict its access to these critical parts.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of part

Phrases Containing role

Browse Nearby Words

roisters
role
role model
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Cite this Entry

“Role.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/role. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about role

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