Definition

1. Noun:
   • A character or part portrayed by an actor in a performance: The specific character an actor represents in a play, film, or other dramatic work.
   • The function, position, or purpose that a person or thing has in a particular situation, group, or process: The expected or assumed set of behaviors, responsibilities, and contributions associated with a specific context.
   • A function or purpose of something: The specific use or job that an object, concept, or institution is designed to serve.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • She auditioned for the role of the queen in the historical drama.
  • His role in the company is to manage international communications.
  • The role of this tool is to tighten bolts securely.

Advanced Usage

• "to play a role in (something)": to have an effect on or be involved in a situation or process.
  • Diet plays a significant role in maintaining good health.
• "to assume/take on a role": to begin performing the duties or functions of a particular position.
  • She will assume the role of director next month.
• "title role": the character in a play, film, etc., whose name forms its title (e.g., Hamlet in ).
  • The actor was praised for his performance in the title role.

Variants and Related Words

• Role-play (verb/noun): To act out or perform the part of a character, often for training or educational purposes.
  • The trainees participated in a role-play exercise to practice customer service scenarios.

Synonyms

• Part: A character or role in a play or film.
• Function: The purpose or natural activity of a person or thing.
• Position: A person's job or status in an organization.
• Duty: A responsibility or task one is required to perform.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

• Role out: (Note: This is not a standard phrasal verb for "role." The correct term is "roll out," meaning to introduce something new. "Role" is not used in phrasal verbs.)

Related Idioms

• "A bit part/role": A very small and unimportant acting part in a play or film.
  • He started his career with a bit part in a television series.
• "To be cast in a role": To be chosen to play a particular character.
  • She was cast in the role of a detective.

Noun

1. normal or customary activity of a person in a particular social setting
   • what is your role on the team?
2. what something is used for
   • the function of an auger is to bore holes
   • ballet is beautiful but what use is it?
3. an actor's portrayal of someone in a play
   • she played the part of Desdemona
4. the actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group
   • the function of a teacher
   • the government must do its part
   • play its role