modelar

Modelar is an infinitive verb in Spanish and Portuguese meaning to create, shape, or construct a model, or to fashion something as a model. It can also refer to designing or simulating a system or object that serves as a representation. The term derives from the noun modelo or modelo, which denotes a prototype or standard; the verb form is built with the -ar suffix common to regular verbs in these languages.

In the arts and crafts, modelar refers to sculpting or forming objects from clay, plaster, wood, or other materials, and to building scale replicas of structures, vehicles, or figures. In design, architecture, and engineering, it denotes the development of prototypes and the refinement of form before final production.

In computing and digital media, modelar describes the creation of three-dimensional models in software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max. A model may be textured, lit, and animated to be used in visualization, games, or film. In science and mathematics, to model a system is to construct a mathematical or computational representation to simulate behavior and make predictions; the noun is modelado (Spanish) or modelagem (Portuguese).

Across contexts, modelar emphasizes representational accuracy and utility. The term is also used metaphorically to mean following or using a reference or example, or to imitate a standard of behavior or appearance.