modeling

[ mod-l-ing ]

noun

1. the act, art, or profession of a person who models.
2. the process of producing sculptured form with some plastic material, as clay.
3. the technique of rendering the illusion of volume on a two-dimensional surface by shading.
4. the treatment of volume, as the turning of a form, in sculpture.
5. the representation, often mathematical, of a process, concept, or operation of a system, often implemented by a computer program.
6. Also called imitation. Psychology. therapy in which a particular behavior is elicited by the observation of similar behavior in others.

Word History and Origins

Origin of modeling¹

First recorded in 1575–85; model + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

When I was 21, I took time off dance and went back to Poland, where I started modeling, which led me to acting, which I studied for three years.

From Los Angeles Times

For two jaw-dropping hours, Gaga performed a masterclass in modeling pop music into high art, one that surpassed even her most famous live performances and ostentatious world tours.

From Salon

“Let the people together work a cure,” he proclaims, modeling the principle that decisions ultimately belonged to the people rather than a monarch.

From Salon

Fashion model Lucy Markovic, who first gained popularity as a competitor on “Australia’s Next Top Model” before professionally modeling for luxury brands including Givenchy and Versace, has died.

From Los Angeles Times

She sang primarily in Spanish — a language she wasn’t fluent in — while adding in dashes of country-western style to her wardrobe, while modeling her performances after American pop stars like Janet Jackson and Madonna.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• design
• painting