in a general sense, an original pattern, proposed for any one to copy or imitate.

This word is particularly used, in building, for an artificial pattern made in wood, stone, plaster, or other matter, with all its parts and proportions, in order for the better conducting and executing some great work, and to give an idea of the effect it will have in large. In all great buildings, it is much the surest way to make a model in relief, and not to trust to a bare design or draught. There are also models for the building of ships, &c. and for extraordinary staircases, &c.

They also use models in painting and sculpture; whence, in the academies, they give the term model to a naked man or woman, disposed in several postures, to give an opportunity to the scholars to delign him in various views and attitudes.