role (social role). (noun) A set of socially defined attributes and expectations that determine appropriate behaviors for an individual or group often based on their status in relation to other people or groups. Example: A person in a parental role is expected to feed and protect their child from harm. Audio Pronunciation: (role). Download Audio Pronunciation: role.mp3. Usage Notes: 1  Plural: roles. 2  The terms role and social role are used interchangeably in a sociological context.