n. & v.
--n.
1. a representation in three dimensions of an existing person or thing or of a proposed structure, esp. on a smaller scale (often attrib.: a model train).
2 a simplified (often mathematical) description of a system etc., to assist calculations and predictions.
3 a figure in clay, wax, etc., to be reproduced in another material.
4 a particular design or style of a structure or commodity, esp. of a car.
5 a an exemplary person or thing (a model of self-discipline). b (attrib.) ideal, exemplary (a model student).
6 a person employed to pose for an artist or photographer or to display clothes etc. by wearing them.
7 a garment etc. by a well-known designer, or a copy of this.
--v. (modelled, modelling; US modeled, modeling)
1. tr. a fashion or shape (a figure) in clay, wax, etc. b (foll. by after, on, etc.) form (a thing in imitation of).
2 a intr. act or pose as a model. b tr. (of a person acting as a model) display (a garment).
3 tr. devise a (usu. mathematical) model of (a phenomenon, system, etc.).
4 tr. Painting cause to appear three-dimensional.
Derivatives:
modeller n.
Etymology: F modelle f. It. modello ult. f. L modulus: see MODULUS