Wannabe

A 'wannabe' is a person who aspires to be someone or something they are not, often emulating traits or characteristics of a particular style, persona, or profession. This desire can stem from a longing for social acceptance, fame, or status, and can sometimes be perceived negatively, as it may imply a level of inauthenticity or superficiality.

Wannabe meaning with examples

• Ever since she started watching reality shows, she became a total wannabe, dressing and acting like her favorite celebrities in order to impress her friends and followers. It's interesting to see how social media can influence someone's identity choices, pushing them to adopt lifestyles that don't reflect their true selves.
• In high school, there was always that one wannabe in each class who tried desperately to fit in with the popular crowd. They would change their interests, wardrobe, and even speech patterns to align with those of their admired peers, often losing touch with their genuine personality in the process.
• The talent show featured a number of wannabes—participants who had rehearsed imitations of famous musicians. While some genuinely put their heart into their performances, others focused more on appearances than the art itself, turning their acts into glossy replicas rather than creative expressions.
• At the office, he was known as the wannabe leader, frequently attempting to lead meetings despite lacking the necessary experience. His enthusiasm was admirable, but colleagues often questioned his ideas and expertise, wishing he would focus on genuine growth rather than simply trying to fill a perceived role.