role

Universal Words noun 1 the function or position that sb has or is expected to have in an organization, in society or in a relationship: the role of the teacher in the classroom * She refused to take on the traditional woman's role. * In many marriages there has been a complete role reversal (= change of roles) with the man staying at home and the woman going out to work. 2 an actor's part in a play, film/movie, etc: It is one of the greatest roles she has played. * Who is in the leading role (= the most important one)? 3 the degree to which sb/sth is involved in a situation or an activity and the effect that they have on it: the role of diet in preventing disease * The media play a major role in influencing people's opinions. * a key / vital role