animal model

noun

: an animal sufficiently like humans in its anatomy, physiology, or response to a pathogen to be used in medical research in order to obtain results that can be extrapolated to human medicine
also : a pathological or physiological condition that occurs in such an animal and is similar to one occurring in humans

Examples of animal model in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Since then, Nichols' group has run numerous experiments in animal models of disease including asthma, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease, but the field has needed to test whether these protective effects hold up in humans. — Will Stone, NPR, 21 Oct. 2026 In response, scientists recorded local flight noise and replicated those exposure patterns in animal models. — Caroline Montojo, STAT, 14 Sep. 2026 In animal models, the compound has been shown to bind with the neurotransmitter dopamine to activate the brain’s reward system. — Shayla Love, New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2026 Because the study relied on laboratory cell cultures and animal models, the findings may not directly translate to how human patients process these supplements during treatment, the team noted. — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for animal model

Word History

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of animal model was in 1955

Rhymes for animal model

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Browse Nearby Words

animal mechanics
animal model
animal mound
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Cite this Entry

“Animal model.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/animal%20model. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

animal model

noun
: an animal sufficiently like humans in its anatomy, physiology, or response to a pathogen to be used in medical research in order to obtain results that can be extrapolated to human medicine
also : a pathological or physiological condition that occurs in such an animal and is similar (as in its pathology or physiology) to a human condition
experimental allergic encephalomyelitis is a useful animal model in the study of multiple sclerosis in humans
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