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Where does the word "model" come from? It comes from Latin modulus, passing through Italian before entering English (1570s).
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Where does the word "model" come from? It comes from Latin modulus, passing through Italian before entering English (1570s).
Model’s story begins in Latin: modulus meant “small measure.” A diminutive of 'modus', measure. By 1500s, the word had taken hold in Italian as modello. Renaissance architects built models of planned buildings. It reached English by 1570s as model. Fashion 'models' date from the 1900s. Today, model means a replica; a person who poses.
- Stage 1 · Latin · ancient modulus "small measure", a diminutive of 'modus', measure.
- Stage 2 · Italian · 1500s modello "model", Renaissance architects built models of planned buildings.
- Stage 3 · English · 1570s model "architect's plan", fashion 'models' date from the 1900s.