role in WordNet English dictionary

1. an actor's portrayal of someone in a play
   "she played the part of Desdemona"
   character  role  theatrical role  part  persona 
   
2. 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"
   function  office  part  role 
   
3. what something is used for
   "the function of an auger is to bore holes"; "ballet is beautiful but what use is it?"
   function  purpose  role  use 
   
4. normal or customary activity of a person in a particular social setting
   "what is your role on the team?"
   role