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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

Examples 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
In the past, most new models were introduced in and around September, but carmakers now introduce new models throughout a calendar year. Russ Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 11 Dec. 2024 The agency’s new model is at the forefront of marketing innovation, but its values also contribute to satisfying outcomes. Hilary Tetenbaum, USA TODAY, 11 Dec. 2024
Adjective
First established in 1879, these institutions aimed to remove Native American children from their families and communities, deny them the right to speak their languages and practice their religions, and train them to be model Americans. Kerri Malloy, The Conversation, 25 July 2024 Kim Ji-uk is known for being a model neighbourhood citizen and works night shifts at a convenience store. Sara Merican, Deadline, 17 July 2024
Verb
Helping to model that behavior and normalizing outreach for support is a great way to diminish the stigma. Subha Barry, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024 The ordinance, modelled on European examples, gave St. Louis the distinction of being the first city in the United States to legalize prostitution. Rebecca Mead, The New Yorker, 9 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for model 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for model
Noun
  • Despite invoking unpleasant feelings to the onlooker, the chasing, biting and kicking seem to be pertinent for wombats’ reproduction.
    Scott Travers, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
  • Selenium is also needed for healthy reproduction, thyroid gland function, and DNA production.13 Sourdough bread with enriched flour covers 13% of your daily iron needs.
    Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 13 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • On a marble coffee table in the adjoining room is a stack of Gap fabrics—denim, khaki, jersey—which Posen hopes to drape on a mannequin today.
    Irina Aleksander, Vogue, 11 Dec. 2024
  • The Monday event was held in Baptist Health College's simulation laboratory -- a hospital ward populated with a dozen or so beds occupied by mannequins.
    Cynthia Howell, arkansasonline.com, 22 Oct. 2024
Noun
  • The Islamist rebel coalition that has now taken over Syria brings together a variety of armed rebel groups, each with its own ideology and ideas about what should happen next.
    Ivana Kottasová, CNN, 12 Dec. 2024
  • This idea is inspired by African American leader and activist Malcolm X.
    The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 12 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • The two drive through a classic American landscape with Roan's parents in the backseat.
    Anna Kaufman, USA TODAY, 17 Dec. 2024
  • The cropped sweatshirt has a drop sleeve that adds interest, a classic crew neckline, and elastic wrists for a crisper fit.
    Shea Simmons, People.com, 16 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Gayle King Gayle King went for a colorful ensemble featuring a bright pink dress and patterned coat with white fur trim.
    Catherine Santino, People.com, 13 Dec. 2024
  • Each tiny, invisible micron-scale robot is patterned with hundreds of even tinier nano-scale magnets, some long and thin, and some short and stubby, Cornell says.
    John Koetsier, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • For months, Bode sourced vintage and antique ornaments, including bulbs, plastic candies, and wooden miniatures such as instruments, birds, and a sleigh.
    Elise Taylor, Vogue, 16 Dec. 2024
  • Other treasures included posters, signed cast photos, sketches of the sets and components, and the miniature of the Galileo shuttle used for filming.
    Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 11 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • The propensity for some of these aged and unique dotcoms to sell for seven figures and up is no surprise.
    Michael Gargiulo, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
  • Donald Trump, who secured victory in the November presidential election against Kamala Harris, was celebrated by TIME for being the most influential figure on the global stage over the past year.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • This past year, for example, out of 8.2 million college students seeking an internship, only 3.6 million landed one and only 2.5 million of those reported having quality experiences with meaningful projects and productive mentorship.
    Brandon Busteed, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024
  • For example, the Eastern Province is known for its seafood, such as Muhammar, a fried fish dish made with rice and sugar that was traditionally popular among sailors.
    AJ Willingham, CNN, 14 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near model

Cite this Entry

“Model.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/model. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on model

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