(n.) A part, or character, performed by an actor in a drama; hence, a part of function taken or assumed by any one; as, he has now taken the role of philanthropist.

actor antagonist antihero bit bit part capacity cast character condition cue duty end use fat part feeder function heavy hero heroine immediate purpose impersonation ingenue job lead lead role leading lady leading man leading woman lines office operation operational purpose part person personage piece place position post protagonist province purpose quality relation responsibility side situation soubrette status straight part supporting character supporting role task title role ultimate purpose use villain walk-on walking part work