Synonyms of model

model 1 of 3

noun

ˈmä-dᵊl 

1

as in reproduction

an exact representation of something in greatly reduced size

the dollhouse was a tiny, perfect model of the family's actual house

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reproduction
• miniature
• replica
• imitation
• copy
• duplicate
• clone
• carbon
• mini
• replication
• mock
• carbon copy
• facsimile
• dummy
• duplication
• midget
• dupe
• reduplication
• dwarf
• pigmy
• pocket edition
• pygmy

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• prototype
• original
• archetype
• enlargement
• blowup

2

as in mannequin

a person who poses with or wears merchandise (as clothes) often for pictorial advertising

the most famous models can earn thousands of dollars an hour

Synonyms & Similar Words

• mannequin
• figure
• doll
• manikin
• mannikin
• form
• dummy
• supermodel
• spokesmodel

3

as in idea

someone of such unequaled perfection as to deserve imitation

she's the very model of the dedicated teacher

Synonyms & Similar Words

• idea
• example
• incarnation
• ideal
• patron saint
• manifestation
• paragon
• exemplar
• classic
• pinnacle
• paradigm
• mirror
• principle
• role model
• essence
• nonpareil
• phantom
• nonesuch
• eidolon
• beau ideal
• personification
• guideline
• embodiment
• pink
• archetype
• pattern
• standard
• rule
• gage
• touchstone
• gauge
• zenith
• summit
• culmination
• epitome
• apex
• apotheosis
• quintessence
• peak
• acme

model

2 of 3

adjective

as in classic

constituting, serving as, or worthy of being a pattern to be imitated

why can't you be like your sister, who is such a well-behaved model child?

Synonyms & Similar Words

• classic
• exemplary
• perfect
• paradigmatic
• definitive
• excellent
• unique
• archetypical
• textbook
• archetypal
• superb
• quintessential
• great
• prime
• exceptional
• wonderful
• terrific
• ideal
• special
• imitable
• fine
• marvellous
• marvelous
• stellar
• fantastic
• flawless
• top
• choice
• banner
• first-class
• grand
• absolute
• superior
• par excellence
• fabulous
• sterling
• superlative
• splendid
• dandy
• impeccable
• sensational
• first-rate
• capital
• wizard
• fancy
• nifty
• nonpareil
• high-grade
• unsurpassed
• A1
• groovy
• swell
• top-notch
• primo
• keen
• tip-top
• crackerjack
• bang-up
• jim-dandy
• A-OK

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• poor
• bad
• unsatisfactory
• substandard
• typical
• average
• normal
• inadequate
• representative
• inferior
• vile
• low-grade
• ordinary
• wretched
• deficient
• atrocious
• disappointing
• execrable
• mediocre
• failed
• second-class
• second-rate

model

3 of 3

verb

as in to pattern

Related Words

• pattern
• condition
• shape
• fashion
• match
• adapt
• customize
• adjust
• gear
• tailor
• fit
• suit
• conform
• correct
• edit
• accommodate
• tune
• readjust
• put
• acclimate
• doctor
• acclimatize
• establish
• harmonize
• square
• root
• prime
• readapt
• orient
• attune
• equip
• familiarize
• orientate
• transform
• redesign
• modify
• recast
• prepare
• acquaint
• alter
• season
• remake
• revise
• reinvent
• rework
• remodel
• rehearse
• refit
• revamp
• reengineer
• refashion
• recycle
• redo
• settle
• convert
• reclaim
• inure
• redevelop
• make over
• toughen
• refigure
• refocus
• harden
• rejigger

Dissimilar Words

• misadjust

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun model differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of model are example, exemplar, ideal, and pattern. While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

When could example be used to replace model?

The meanings of example and model largely overlap; however, example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

Where would exemplar be a reasonable alternative to model?

The synonyms exemplar and model are sometimes interchangeable, but exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

When might ideal be a better fit than model?

The words ideal and model are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

In what contexts can pattern take the place of model?

Although the words pattern and model have much in common, pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of model

Noun

Leaders who model resilience and create environments of psychological safety establish foundations for innovation, excellence and retention. —Elan Gepner-Dales, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025

Encourage employees to take PTO and unplug, and model this behavior at the executive level. —Dave Smith, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2025

Adjective

The model builds on a decade of global outreach that has touched multiple continents. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 23 Oct. 2025

As such, the starring roles this year belong not to actors and models—though, yes, all your favorites will be in attendance—but to costume designers and their work. —Laia Garcia-Furtado, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2025

Verb

This is not the 21st-century China that the state is keen to project in films that play abroad — and these characters are not model 21st-century Chinese, either. —Adam Solomons, IndieWire, 5 Sep. 2025

From pin-straight recession brunette tresses to luscious D Hair Boutique extensions, her reunion moment was her signature style but with a more drenching wet, model-esque feel. —Essence, 25 Aug. 2025

Phrases Containing model

• role model