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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 model took off, first with acting students and then with those from costume design, production design, film and television, and sound design. Spenser Mestel, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Feb. 2025 Pessimist case: Venture capital is a power-law business, and the model doesn't work if top companies like Stripe keep kicking the IPO can down the road. Dan Primack, Axios, 27 Feb. 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
Baggy fits modeled after ’90s rigid denim are on the upswing as well, especially jeans made with deceptively soft and relaxed fabrics. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 27 Feb. 2025 This time, however, the role of Lyric is played by actress and model Eva Marcille. Shelby Stewart, Essence, 25 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for model
Recent Examples of Synonyms for model
Noun
  • That means these sharks may be investing less energy in reproduction, potentially leading to fewer successful pregnancies.
    Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025
  • But the science of menopause is considerably more recent, dating to the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, when physicians in Europe began to research the effects of chemicals secreted by the body which control reproduction.
    Rebecca Mead, The New Yorker, 3 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The institute had previously rated two of the models for nighttime crash prevention using pedestrian mannequins that wore dark clothing.
    Ariane Lange, Sacramento Bee, 9 Jan. 2025
  • Between the lines: O'Connell is known for whimsy — cue his pandemic-era dining mannequins or ballet classes for staff coordination.
    Anna Spiegel, Axios, 19 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • This innovative idea allows companies to analyze and optimize their processes with real-time results rather than relying on subjective interviews.
    Kody Boye, USA TODAY, 28 Feb. 2025
  • Many of the world’s most successful businesses began with an idea, not an overflowing bank account.
    Vinayak Mahtani, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • After an exciting night at the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, March 2, the Wicked star opted for a late-night indulgence in an eccentric black dress, heading to Raising Cane's for some classic comfort food, as seen in a photo that was shared to the famous chain's Instagram.
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025
  • In the heart of San Francisco’s West Portal neighborhood, George’s Donuts and Merriment brings a playful yet refined take on the classic donut café.
    Chelsea Davis, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Similarly, a brightly colored or boldly patterned style can set the tone for a new decorative scheme.
    Clint Davis, People.com, 1 Mar. 2025
  • Woodson said he’s patterned his game after former Cal teammate Cam Bynum, a 2021 fourth-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings.
    Cam Inman, The Mercury News, 28 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • The Fenty mogul personally introduces the new trailer, which went live Thursday (Feb. 6), waving to the camera before she’s joined by a few of the film’s famous blue miniatures on screen.
    Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 6 Feb. 2025
  • Many a short film that is later expanded into a feature feels reverse-engineered for that specific purpose: an eye-catching taster of what is clearly intended as a larger work, though perhaps not wholly satisfying as a miniature.
    Guy Lodge, Variety, 21 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Although the accuracy of Russian polling may be questionable, the most recent polls there give Putin a figure of 87 percent and close to an all-time high.
    Dan Perry, Newsweek, 1 Mar. 2025
  • The most illuminated of them, hatless and dragging, is followed by a marginally more active figure, the only one to acknowledge the viewer’s presence.
    Sarah C. Schaefer, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • For example, episode six looks at Gary Woodland’s remarkable return to the sport after undergoing brain surgery in 2023.
    Ben Church, CNN, 2 Mar. 2025
  • For example, for a recent vintage, Pommier collaborated with French jazz composer Franck Tortiller, who then created an album inspired by the world of wine.
    Rachel King, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Model.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/model. Accessed 8 Mar. 2025.

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