Definition of modelnext

model

2 of 3

adjective

model

3 of 3

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
According to his models, under any plausible emissions scenario, Barnes will disappear within a few centuries. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 24 Oct. 2026 Nvidia graphics processing units are critical for training and deploying AI models. — Kif Leswing,isabel O'Brien, CNBC, 24 Oct. 2026
Adjective
The black dotted forecast line shows the multi-model median whereas the surrounding range shows the 25th–75th percentiles. — Deena Zaidi, CNBC, 6 Sep. 2026 Because solutions are designed with model-agnostic architecture, organizations can adopt future AI innovations without rebuilding their underlying systems. — Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2026
Verb
Again, the science supports this showing clearly that most change efforts fail because leaders do not model the change themselves. — Deborah Lovich, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2026 Jenner is the first non-Angel to model the legendary Fantasy Bra. — Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for model
Recent Examples of Synonyms for model
Noun
  • Black-and-white reproductions of historic expedition photos accent hallways and suites.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Oct. 2026
  • Marginal illustrations are found in the reproduction of The Antiquities of the Jews, including a portrait of its author, Josephus, and a depiction of two orbs representing the creation of heaven and earth.
    — Laura Payne, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Robots, Barbie dolls, Supermans, T-rexes and princesses began to form in a circular line around the perimeter of the gym.
    — Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 30 Oct. 2026
  • After their investigation the Warrens concluded that the doll was being controlled by a demon.
    — Frannie Comstock, Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Our research and engineering remain world-class, but our record of getting ideas to market and improving how products are made has been less stellar.
    — Rick Lazio, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2026
  • It has also been designed as a neighborhood gathering space, with Apartment at 365, the physical space representing the Happier pillar of discovery, idea exchange, community, creativity and collaboration.
    — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 24 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The backstory Opened in spring 2023, Ulum Moab was created for guests interested in a more elevated version of Under Canvas's classic glamping properties.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Oct. 2026
  • That churning could explain why classic models, which assume that the ISM is in a tranquil equilibrium, don’t quite seem to match reality.
    — Perri Thaler, Quanta Magazine, 30 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Meanwhile, leaflets ordering evacuations pattern the sky like a damned murmuration, and nighttime artillery fire paints striations like inverted fireworks.
    — Ritesh Mehta, IndieWire, 5 Sep. 2026
  • Researchers deposit and pattern optical waveguides, which act as tiny pathways for light, on a silicon substrate.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 3 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • For Reed, 17 boards were not enough for that miniature Dan Hurley sitting on his shoulder.
    — Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 18 Oct. 2026
  • Access to materials such as Tough 1500 V2 already expands its usefulness beyond miniatures and decorative prints, opening up functional projects without requiring a professional system.
    — Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Her mannequin head is serene, but a set of external ribs peek out from underneath like the bony grip of a witch.
    — Shanti Escalante-De Mattei, ARTnews.com, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Godena-Juhász and Tóth took a mannequin made to the actor’s measurements and began plotting a pattern.
    — Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The world’s highest-profile tech billionaires offer the most conspicuous examples.
    — Molly A. Wallace, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2026
  • One particularly promising example is an MRI technique that identifies the central vein sign, a feature that can help physicians distinguish lesions associated with MS from abnormalities caused by other conditions.
    — Bruce Bebo, STAT, 24 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Model.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/model. Accessed 5 Nov. 2026.

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