Dictionary entries for 'model'

Synonyms

mod·el (mŏd́l)

[French modèle, from Italian modello diminutive of modo, form, from Latin modus, measure, standard.]

noun

A small object, usually built to scale, that represents in detail another, often larger object.
1. A preliminary work or construction that serves as a plan from which a final product is to be made: a clay model ready for casting.
2. Such a work or construction used in testing or perfecting a final product: a test model of a solar-powered vehicle.
A schematic description of a system, theory, or phenomenon that accounts for its known or inferred properties and may be used for further study of its characteristics: a model of generative grammar; a model of an atom; an economic model.
A style or design of an item: My car is last year's model.
One serving as an example to be imitated or compared: a model of decorum. See synonyms at ideal
One that serves as the subject for an artist, especially a person employed to pose for a painter, sculptor, or photographer.
A person employed to display merchandise, such as clothing or cosmetics.
Zoology An animal whose appearance is copied by a mimic.

To make or construct a model of.
To plan, construct, or fashion according to a model.
To make conform to a chosen standard: He modeled his manners on his father's.
1. To make by shaping a plastic substance: modeled a bust from clay.
2. To form (clay, for example) into a shape.
To display by wearing or posing.
In painting, drawing, and photography, to give a three-dimensional appearance to, as by shading or highlighting.