n 1  :  a model for making a mold used to form a casting  2  :  a reliable sample of traits, acts, tendencies, or other observable characteristics of a person, group, or institution <s of behavior>   3  :  an established mode of behavior or cluster of mental attitudes, beliefs, and values that are held in common by members of a group .
 
 
 
Similar sounding terms:  hy·po·adre·nia  pter·in  pter·i·on 
 
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