What does "protagonist" mean?

1. (main character) the main character in a book, film, or play. 2. (leader or advocate) an important person who leads a movement or supports a particular cause.

protagonist

US //pɹoʊˈtæɡənəst// UK //pɹəʊtˈæɡənˌɪst// pro·tag·o·nist

1 main character (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

the main character in a book, film, or play.

the principal character in a literary work, film, or drama, around whom the plot revolves.

Example

In the novel, the protagonist must decide between his family and his career.

Example

The author challenges traditional tropes by creating a protagonist whose moral ambiguity makes it difficult for the audience to offer their full sympathy.
- antagonist
- villain
2 leader or advocate (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal

an important person who leads a movement or supports a particular cause.

a leading figure, advocate, or champion of a particular cause, movement, or course of action.

Example

She was a key protagonist in the fight for better working conditions.

Example

Historians identify him as a central protagonist in the reform movement, noting his ability to unify disparate political factions under a single banner.
- opponent
- adversary

Origin

From Ancient Greek πρωταγωνιστής (prōtagōnistḗs, “a chief actor”), from πρῶτος (prôtos, “first”) + ἀγωνιστής (agōnistḗs, “a combatant, pleader, actor”). By surface analysis, prot- (“first”) + agonist (“combatant, participant”).