Model

A model is a simplified representation of something, used to study, explain, or predict how it works, like a model of the solar system or a climate model. It can also mean a person who shows clothing or products, or an excellent example to copy.

From Italian “modello,” meaning “pattern, example, copy,” from Latin “modulus,” a small measure or standard. The idea of a model as a smaller or ideal version grew from this sense of a guiding pattern.