What is the meaning of the word role?

Role is a noun meaning "function, position, duty, usually in reference to a person"; in theater and acting, a role is "a specific character or defined position in a cast or script". An example sentence with the first definition would be: "The human resource manager's role is to hire, discipline and fire employees as necessary." An example sentence with the second definition would be "The role of Cinderella in the spring play will be performed by Jade Willows."