language model

noun

plural language models
: a mathematical model (see model entry 1 sense 3) that analyzes a corpus of text in order to accurately represent the relationships between words
We have tremendous freedom to put words in any order we like. The computer has to have some kind of handle, a language model. It has to figure how likely any particular word is to pop up at any time.Robert Mercer, quoted in Chicago Tribune
also : software that uses a language model to generate text (such as responses to queries or prompts)
For example, given the task of analyzing the sentiment of the sentence 'I missed the bus today,' researchers could continue with the prompt 'I felt so [blank]' and ask a language model to fill in the blank with an emotion. Kyle Wiggers
see also large language model

Examples of language 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.
Our team and the xAI team have worked side by side for a year, using multiple layers of their technology, the language model, the voice AI, and the image AI, together in one experience. Dave Knox, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 Scammers have a large pool of material to train language models on how to talk, look and act like Leal. Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 11 June 2026 Phison says its new memory extension technology can run a 26-billion-parameter language model on a PC with just 16 GB of RAM, potentially allowing more advanced smart software to operate locally without relying heavily on cloud infrastructure. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 2 June 2026 The centers make everyday services like email, online banking, telehealth, streaming services and artificial intelligence language models possible for Denverites. Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for language model

Word History

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of language model was in 1976

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Language model.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/language%20model. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster