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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
For example, Tencent Video offers platform support, including video content production, management and distribution tools via Tencent Cloud, as well as support on audience reach, revenue models, product quality support, and copyright protection. Sara Merican, Deadline, 4 Apr. 2025 New Apple Intelligence features announced According to Apple, all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pros, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max now have new Apple Intelligence features. Saleen Martin, USA Today, 4 Apr. 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
Maybe folks dreamed of Jason Momoa modeling dirtbag-chic couture, sporting a vintage Sunset Strip shaggy ‘do, and channeling his inner cheeseball. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 3 Apr. 2025 Lack of clarity on whether there will be one flat tariff rate for all imports or whether the administration takes a more fragmented approach has made modeling the ultimate impact of the tariffs on earnings, growth and inflation a daunting challenge. Saqib Iqbal Ahmed, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for model
Recent Examples of Synonyms for model
Noun
  • Ryan pointed to a Model T 100, a reproduction done of the Ford Model T done in 2003 for the 100th anniversary of the company.
    Jamie L. LaReau, USA Today, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Second, how do social groups affect individual survival and reproduction – in other words, what group traits are under selection?
    Conner Philson, The Conversation, 27 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Other than a bartender and the dead girl in the corner — a mannequin, dressed like a ghoul, in a long white gown and pale make-up.
    Christopher Borrelli, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Custom mannequins for Good American’s inclusive sizing.
    David Moin, Footwear News, 2 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Jon Conahan of Athlon Sports recently pitched a blockbuster trade idea that would send Walker to the New York Mets this season.
    Newsweek Staff, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Apr. 2025
  • Dolly Parton’s cookbook, Good Lookin’ Cookin’, is filled with a year's worth of classic recipes and menu ideas.
    Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Sherman, 81, exemplified a classic California pop king.
    Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Ten looks from her archives will close out the show with a focus on classic glamour.
    Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 28 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Williams added a pretty pastel bathroom, perfect for a midday sob, printed on a T-shirt and floral patterned Korean toilet paper inspired miniskirts and cool slouchy dresses.
    Violet Goldstone, Footwear News, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Reid sported a black and white patterned floor-length skirt and paired the statement piece with a leather jacket featuring oversize lapels.
    Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The courthouse, which took about three months to create, is the latest in a line of impressive sculptures from Hackett, who painstakingly plans and executes one miniature marvel after the next.
    Mars King, Twin Cities, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Priced at $138 for 100ml, $100 for 50ml, with miniatures available from $29, Fleur Majesty Rose Royale launched exclusively as a Sephora App preview on March 10th, with global availability following on March 13th.
    Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 14 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • She’s proved to be a compelling — if divisive — figure, and will certainly continue to have her champions.
    Kate Aurthur, Variety, 7 Apr. 2025
  • The full figures for 2023-24 were released on Saturday morning and confirm that Chelsea valued their women’s team at £200million ($258m) when selling it to Blueco 22 Midco Limited — a company within the club’s broader legal structure.
    Dan Sheldon, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • For example, researchers have discovered that mutations in the BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 genes signal higher risk for certain cancers like breast cancer.
    Abigail Dubiniecki, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Montini playing football in Class 3A, for example, felt wrong.
    Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Model.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/model. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

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