What does modelled mean?
Modelled is the past tense and past participle of model and is also used as an adjective. Its central idea is that something has been created, shaped, planned, or represented according to a model or guiding pattern. Physical objects may be modelled in clay or another material, while buildings, products, and policies may be modelled on earlier designs or principles. In technical contexts, especially economics, mathematics, and computing, modelled can mean represented mathematically or computationally. A modelled object therefore need not be a finished product: the word often describes an intermediate stage in which a design, plan, or simulation is developed. The term is formal and broadly international, and the double-l spelling is especially associated with British English, although it is also accepted in the United States. Modelled is useful wherever precision matters because it distinguishes work based on a model from work created without a defined pattern.
To create, shape, plan, or represent something according to a model, design, or example.
"The team modelled the proposal on projects that had succeeded elsewhere."
The form is used as both the past tense and past participle of model.
Formed, shaped, or planned in accordance with a particular model or standard.
"The museum displayed a finely modelled reconstruction of the ancient building."
This participial use commonly occurs before a noun but can also appear after a linking verb.
A modelled object may be physical, mathematical, architectural, or economic—the same word covers everything created by following a pattern.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does modelled come from?
Modelled derives from model through the verb model, originally meaning to make or represent according to a model. Model came through French from Latin modelus, meaning a small measure or pattern, a sense related to modulus and other Latin-derived words concerned with measure or proportion. The doubled-l spelling is characteristic of British English, while modeled is the usual American spelling.
Related word forms
How modelled is actually used
The spelling with two l characters is standard in British and other varieties using British orthography, although it is also accepted in American English, where modeled is more common. The form functions both as the past tense and past participle of model and as a participial adjective.
Easily confused with modelled
Modelled means made or planned according to a model, whereas mould means shaped by a form or cast in a mould.