a hypothetical description of a complex entity or process
"the computer program was based on a model of the circulatory and respiratory systems"
representation of something (sometimes on a smaller scale)
"The architect used a clay model to show how sunlight would hit the building at noon."
something to be imitated
"an exemplar of success"
"a model of clarity"
"he is the very model of a modern major general"
A person who serves as a subject for artwork or fashion, usually in the medium of photography but also for painting or drawing.
"The artist asked his model to sit still while he sketched her profile for the new portrait series."
In plain English: A model is a person who poses for photos or shows off clothes to an audience.
"The fashion model walked down the runway in her new gown."
Usage: Use the word model to refer to a person hired to pose for photographs, paintings, or other artistic works. This noun specifically denotes an individual serving as a live subject rather than a physical replica or example.
to display for others to see, especially in regard to wearing clothing while performing the role of a fashion model
"She stood on the runway and modeled the latest summer collection under the bright lights."
In plain English: To model something means to copy how someone else acts or behaves by watching them closely and doing the same thing.
"She decided to model her new business after her successful aunt."
Usage: Use "model" as a verb when you display an object or yourself for others to observe, such as posing for photographs or demonstrating how to use a product. Do not confuse this with using "modeled" to describe something that was constructed based on a pattern, which requires different phrasing like "modeled after."
Worthy of being a model; exemplary.
"Her dedication to community service made her a true model for everyone in the neighborhood."
In plain English: When something is described as model, it means it is an excellent example of its kind and does everything perfectly.
"The designer showed us the new model of the car."
Usage: Use "model" as an adjective to describe someone or something that serves as an ideal example of good behavior or quality. Place it directly before the noun it modifies, as in "a model student" or "a model employee."
The word "model" comes from the Middle French term modelle, which traces back to a Latin root meaning "measure" or "standard." It entered English with this original sense of serving as an example or pattern for imitation.