template
/ˈtɛmpleɪt
/ /ˈtɛmplət/noun
1A shaped piece of rigid material used as a pattern for processes such as cutting out, shaping, or drilling.Templates, patterns, and drawings guarantee consistency and could be used for generations....
- The original full-sized drawing was used as a template to make pattern pieces.
- Our plans come complete with full-size templates and step-by-step instructions.
1.1Something that serves as a model for others to copy: the plant was to serve as the template for change throughout the company...
- The airplane served as a template for many future models.
- These examples could serve as templates until the new teacher develops his or her own style.
- The proposed model could serve as a template for such studies.
1.2 Computing A preset format for a document or file.We went looking for templates in the File menu....
- Any employee can upload documents or templates that might be useful for anyone else in the organization.
- You can alter the look of your email template by changing the graphics and/or fields.
1.3 Biochemistry A nucleic acid molecule that acts as a pattern for the sequence of assembly of a protein, nucleic acid, or other large molecule: [as modifier]: secondary structure in the template strand is eliminated...
- Messenger RNA molecules are templates for the proteins that carry the main metabolic functions in a cell.
- Both strands can act as templates to produce a molecule called ribonucleic acid.
- During protein synthesis templates are translated into a sequence of amino acids.
2A timber or plate used to distribute the weight in a wall or under a support.The templates hold the anchor bolts.
Origin
Late 17th century (as templet): probably from temple3 + -et1. The change in the ending in the 19th century was due to association with plate.