scale model

scale model (plural scale models)

1. A three-dimensional copy or representation of something in which all parts have dimensions in the same proportion to that of the original (i.e., all aspect ratios are preserved).

   Synonyms: miniature, mini

   Hypernym: model

   Hyponym: bigature

   To test the hydrodynamics of the dam, the civil engineers not only ran computer simulations but also even built and flooded a scale model of the dam and the surrounding valley.

   A scale model of a cargo aircraft was perched on the desk of the air force officer. "As they say, guns start wars, but logistics win them," he said.

• scale modeler