What does modeling mean?
Modeling is the practice of representing a person, object, system, or process through a simplified or mathematically precise version of it. In science and engineering, modeling may involve equations, computer simulations, or digital representations that help researchers investigate behavior and make predictions. In the arts, a model may pose for a sculptor or photographer, while the fashion industry uses modeling to present clothing. The word can also describe the general act of portraying or reproducing a subject. In all these contexts, modeling combines representation with interpretation: it is not necessarily a perfect copy, but a constructed version intended to capture important features. The term is especially common in the United States, where it is spelled with one l, although British and Canadian English generally use “modelling” with two.
The process of creating, using, or presenting a representation of a system, person, object, or process.
"Statistical modeling revealed a strong connection between the two variables."
Usually an uncountable noun; plural forms are uncommon and generally unnecessary.
To represent a system, person, or process through a mathematical, artistic, digital, or other simplified form; also, to pose for an artist or display clothing professionally.
"The software models the movement of water through the reservoir."
This is the present participle of “model” and is also used as a gerund.
Rare and normally unnecessary, because the noun usually denotes an uncountable activity or process.
"The researchers compared several modelings of future urban growth."
One word, two spellings: Americans generally write modeling, while British English usually doubles the l.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does modeling come from?
The word ultimately comes through French from Italian modello, a diminutive of Latin modulus, itself derived from Latin modus, meaning “measure” or “manner.” “Model” was established in English by the early 17th century for a mathematical representation and soon came to mean a small-scale copy or a person represented in art. “Modeling” developed from these meanings, while related forms such as “modeler” and “remodel” continue the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How modeling is actually used
In American English, “modeling” normally has one l; “modelling” with two l’s is standard in British and Canadian English. The noun commonly denotes an activity or process and is therefore usually treated as an uncountable noun. As a verb form, “modeling” is the present participle of “model” and can modify another verb, as in “a widely used modeling framework.”
Easily confused with modeling
“Modeling” is the standard American spelling, while “modelling,” with two l’s, is the usual British and Canadian spelling of the same word.