male role model

Guiding man admired

A male role model is a man whose behavior, success, or character serves as an example for others to emulate—particularly for boys and young men.

The phrase often appears in discussions of fatherhood, mentorship, and child development: Every boy needs a positive male role model in his life.

It can carry political undertones in debates about gender, family structure, and masculinity.

Related

patriarch · guide · leader · coach · teacher · elder · old man · protector · provider · gentleman · stand-up guy · example · leading by example · wisdom · moral compass · strength · integrity · inspiration

Opposites
gender

male role modelmaternal figure

Woman providing parental care

mother figure · feminine ideal

moral influence

male role modelbad influence

One who encourages wrongdoing

absent father · cautionary tale · bad example · deadbeat dad · villain

influence valence

male role modelbad influence

One who encourages wrongdoing

enabler · predator · abuser · manipulator

Family

male, males, maleness, role, roles, model, models, modeling, modeled

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G