role model

role model

An individual whose behavior serves as an exemplar to others. This expression, dating from the second half of the 1900s, alludes to acting out parts in a theatrical production. It appeared in the New York Times Magazine (June 26, 1977): “If the teacher was a ‘role model’ parents were obviously unaware of it.”
See also: model, role
The Dictionary of Clichés by Christine Ammer
See also:
  • chips are down, the
  • tree hugger
  • tell (one) what (one) can do with (something)
  • tell someone what to do with something
  • tell what to do with
  • drum (something) into one's head, to
  • What was (one) smoking?
  • crab mentality
  • be as mad as a March hare
  • back number
References in periodicals archive
But what exactly is a role model leader, I pondered.
A Catholic Church leader said the Filipino youth are looking for role models, individuals to emulate, people to pattern their actions after.
PS: How can a specific financial role model be associated with goal attainment?
A lack of suitable role models for schoolchildren is deterring them from considering careers in engineering - and preventing the industry from plugging the huge skills shortages.
Technically role models are different from mentors.
"How am I a role model? I'm a normal human being, no talents - I don't sing, I don't act.
Although this is a 'Lifetime Role Model Award', I am picking this up on behalf of our amazing staff, army of volunteers and more importantly, all of the Everton in the Community participants.
The UAE has launched an initiative that creates a platform for female Emirati role models to share their knowledge, skills and experience with national women across all strata of society.
You don't have to be the gender of someone to be a role model."
JANE EVANS JONES: Yes, child care is quite a female dominated area and having a male role model, care giver
A British Conservative defense minister said Kim Kardashian is not a good role model for young girls.
Twerks for me: Miley doesn't want to be a role model
Summary: TEHRAN (FNA)- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Seyed Abbas Araqchi underlined Iran's important and influential role in the region, saying that Iran is now a proper role model for independent nations' confrontation against the hegemonic powers and regional dictators.
If you're an aspiring footballer, David Beckham maybe your role model, while if you're a wannabe author, JK Rowling would be someone you look up to.