D
Dicread
HomeDictionaryPprotagonist

Note: The translation for this entry is currently under quality review. Some content is temporarily displayed in English only.

protagonist

[C] Countable
pl: protagonists

In storytelling, this term describes the center of the narrative arc. While often equated with the hero, a protagonist is not necessarily virtuous; they are simply the character whose goals drive the plot forward and through whom the audience experiences the story. When used in a social or political context, the word carries a sense of active leadership and bravery. It describes someone who does not just support a cause from the sidelines but takes a visible, driving role in pushing for change.

Used to count individual lead characters in stories or specific champions of a cause.

Meanings

Noun
[person]

The leading character or one of the major characters in a drama, movie, novel, or other fictional text.

"The protagonist of the novel struggles to overcome his internal fears while fighting an external enemy."

Noun
[person]

An advocate or champion of a particular cause or course of action.

"She was a leading protagonist for the reform of the education system in her city."

Last Updated: May 26, 2026Report an Error