model 1 of 3

Definition of modelnext

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
Starting with The Great American Bash this summer, the multiyear deal will mark the first time NXT’s PLEs, formerly referred to as pay-per-views due to their one-off rental revenue model, will air on broadcast television. Tony Maglio, HollywoodReporter, 28 Apr. 2026 Castellacci’s one-off Astor 38 Pista inspired Bellini’s newest model. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 28 Apr. 2026
Adjective
Zendaya looked model-esque and confident in the dress while striking poses and laughing in front of the event’s photographers, as captured in videos. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 13 Mar. 2026 The big difference is model-specific Volcano Grey Metallic trim in the front and back. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 11 Mar. 2026
Verb
Whitehall’s opening monologue included jokes about his upcoming wedding (to model partner Roxy Horner), largely lamenting the cost and need to socialize with so many people. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 14 Apr. 2026 Alec was previously married to model Kim Basinger, and the former couple have one daughter together, Ireland. Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 14 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for model
Recent Examples of Synonyms for model
Noun
  • Such behavior would have improved the odds of reproduction.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 May 2026
  • The concept of high-fidelity sound reproduction has been around since the 1930s and denotes a sound system with no distortion or degradation in quality.
    Nathanael Gassett, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The queen will gift a new Roo doll to the New York Public Library’s famous Winnie the Pooh collection as the character marks 100 years since its creation.
    Philip Marcelo, Los Angeles Times, 29 Apr. 2026
  • The leader of the rebellion chatted with young kids carrying Princess Leia dolls and wearing Boba Fett masks.
    Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 29 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • May 21 – June 20 A good idea turns into real progress faster than expected.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 2 May 2026
  • Haring’s totems clearly express this idea.
    Glenn Adamson, Artforum, 2 May 2026
Adjective
  • Beachy handbags, light jackets, classic pearls, chunky boots—your choice of accompaniments can take things from romantic to edgy to eclectic.
    Kelsey Stiegman, Glamour, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Many vintage fashion enthusiasts and Lilly Pulitzer collectors specifically seek out white label pieces for their classic prints, silhouettes, and legacy value.
    Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 28 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • In my two-level penthouse suite, for example, quietly floral wallpaper, gray-velvet sofas and armchairs, and patterned cream tiles with gold accents in the bathrooms made for a sophisticated, yet welcoming space.
    Megan Spurrell, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Jan. 2026
  • The institutions studied by political scientists do not exist outside ideology but are simply patterned instances of ideology—and if ideology changes drastically enough, the institutions change with it.
    Jason Blakely, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • Bohan carried on that tradition, while also designing two collections a year for Baby Dior, often making miniatures of Elizabeth Taylor’s purchases for her daughter, Liza, which the pair would go out wearing together.
    Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 22 Apr. 2026
  • The rocketeer claimed each of these organisms — floating in the void, crowding stars like phototropic cosmic foliage — would resemble a miniature biosphere, being metabolically self-sufficient.
    Big Think, Big Think, 22 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The entire exhibit will feature over 200 mannequins fitted with a polished steel surface akin to a mirror.
    Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 1 May 2026
  • It was finished in 2024, but the nonprofit then sought more funds to pay for the display case and mannequin, which were completed in 2025.
    Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 30 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • For example, a single high-quality crown or veneer at a private London clinic can cost £600 to £1,200 or more, whereas similar work in Turkey is often much lower.
    K.H. Koehler, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Now, a group of doctors is using the example of Hurricane Helene to urge federal lawmakers to help improve access to substance use medications in severe weather emergencies.
    Andrew Jones, NPR, 28 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Model.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/model. Accessed 7 May. 2026.

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