role-n; 2 Senses

Sense Number 1: function

Commentary: office, part, purpose, use - the actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group

Examples:
The role of a teacher changes daily.
The government must play it's role.
What is your role on the team?
The role of an auger is to bore holes.

Mappings:
WordNet 2.0 Sense Numbers: 1 3 4

Sense Number 2: character

Commentary: theatrical role, part, persona - an actor's portrayal of someone in a play

Examples:
She plays the role of Desdemona.

Mappings:
WordNet 2.0 Sense Numbers: 2