template
5 synonyms for template, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A pre-made pattern or shape used as a guide for making other objects.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use template
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
use a template
fill in the template
invoice template
Etymology
An altered form of "templet," probably from French templet, related to "temple" (a weaver's stretching device); the ending changed by analogy with the word "plate."
Full origin of template →Frequently asked questions
What does “template” mean?
The word “template” means a pre-made pattern or shape used as a guide for making other objects. In plain terms, a ready-made pattern, form, or document you reuse or fill in rather than starting from scratch.
How do you pronounce “template”?
“Template” is pronounced TEHM-pliht (/ˈtɛm.plɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “template” in a sentence?
Here is “template” used in a sentence: “She used a cardboard template to cut identical fabric pieces.”
What part of speech is “template”?
“Template” is a noun.
Where does the word “template” come from?
The word “template” comes from French. An altered form of "templet," probably from French templet, related to "temple" (a weaver's stretching device); the ending changed by analogy with the word "plate.".
Is “template” a common word?
“Template” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “template” have?
“Template” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a pre-made pattern or shape used as a guide for making other objects.
What is the difference between a template and a form?
A template is a ready-made document or pattern that provides a starting structure for others to build on or fill in, such as a resume template or a physical shape template used for cutting. A form is usually a specific document with blank fields meant to collect information, which can itself be based on a template.
What is the difference between a template and a model?
A template is typically a reusable structure or pattern meant to be copied or filled in repeatedly, while a model is often a single representative example or prototype. In practice the words overlap, but "template" more strongly implies something designed for repeated reuse.
Can "template" refer to something other than a document?
Yes, template can also mean a physical pattern or shape used as a guide, such as a sewing template or a cutting template used in manufacturing. Both the physical and document senses share the core idea of a guide that others copy or follow.
