role-model

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role-model A significant other, upon which an individual patterns his or her behaviour in a particular social role, including adopting appropriate similar attitudes. Role-models need not be known personally to the individual: some people model their behaviour in particular roles on the real and legendary example provided by historical figures. Role-models tend to provide ideals for a particular role only, rather than a pattern to be emulated across all the constituent roles of an individual's life and self.