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model

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adjective

model

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verb

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of model
Noun
The classic Thermapen is a nearly instant-read model that has stood the test of time in many kitchens around the globe. Parker Hall, WIRED, 2 Feb. 2025 Embed Sustainability Into The Business Model Start by embedding sustainability into your business model. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025
Adjective
Rather than only considering any one number in isolation to assess a model and determine whether and how to deploy it, your team must work with visuals like a savings or profit curve that convey the complete range of model-deployment options. Eric Siegel, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024 But how do teachers start molding preschoolers into model environmental citizens? Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 18 Sep. 2024
Verb
The new location is modeled after existing AutoCamp resorts near Yosemite and Joshua Tree national parks. Brooke Baitinger, Idaho Statesman, 30 Jan. 2025 This type of deep learning model, widely considered as among the most advanced AI systems for image recognition by engineers, was itself modeled in part after mammalian visual cortexes. Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 30 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for model 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for model
Noun
  • Lending pandas to zoos across the U.S. and other countries also encourages reproduction and helps save the giant pandas from extinction.
    Jennifer Borresen, USA TODAY, 24 Jan. 2025
  • Inside, there’s a photomechanical reproduction on gold of Eisenhower’s husband, President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 24 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • The company also said that enhanced visual merchandising in stores and the reintroduction of mannequins on the shop floor; cross-category styling ,and styling innovations on the Burberry website also helped to tempt customers.
    Samantha Conti, WWD, 24 Jan. 2025
  • Draping, by the way, is the process of creating a garment by pinning and arranging fabrics directly on a mannequin, or even on a person, which might sound odd but is not at all unusual in high fashion.
    Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • In a world where fashion is increasingly fluid, the tie among other sartorial queues, has become a reinvigorated statement - a la Kamala Harris and her will to take on ideas around gender norms.
    Cassell Ferere, Forbes, 4 Feb. 2025
  • Spike that idea After getting roasted for whiffing on a spike in the AFC Championship Game against the Bills, Mahomes is not dying for a do-over.
    Nate Taylor, The Athletic, 4 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • This collection brings together a pitmaster’s chili recipe, two classic game day dips, and a delicious corn and avocado salad.
    Nick Siano, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Jan. 2025
  • Unlike the gruesome, bloodthirsty creatures of classic films and literature, Cullen and his family abstain from drinking the blood of humans.
    Edward Segarra, USA TODAY, 27 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Nye took the runway in a navy blue bomber jacket patterned with Greek gods and goddesses as well as a pair of black shorts that hit above the knee.
    Catherine Santino, People.com, 5 Feb. 2025
  • Adam sticks the landing, so to speak, with a sumptuous corner sofa and patterned rug.
    Dan Howarth, Architectural Digest, 30 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Sachs’s ability to convey lives in miniature should serve him well with such an intimate, subtle premise, especially given the power of these two actors.
    Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 23 Jan. 2025
  • From the audience under the rotunda, Republicans gleamed their approval and Democrats sulked in opposition — a piece of theater that, in miniature, encapsulated the broader partisan divisions and cultural differences that practically define American politics in the modern era.
    Mike Lillis, The Hill, 20 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • That figure has ticked up over recent months, despite a series of interest rate cuts at the Federal Reserve.
    Max Zahn, ABC News, 5 Feb. 2025
  • That figure is almost 200 more than what was afforded to countryman Renato Veiga, another dizzyingly swift loan departure to Juventus in January.
    Liam Twomey, The Athletic, 5 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • For example a key assumption of the city’s plan anticipates future major capital improvements to maintain and expand water, sewer, and stormwater systems, including treatment facilities, wells, pipe oversizing, and water tower.
    Graham P. Johnson, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025
  • Key leaders like quarterback Caleb Williams and head coach Ben Johnson need to set good examples and hold others to a high standard.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 6 Feb. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near model

Cite this Entry

“Model.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/model. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on model

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