template

noun

1. A physical object whose shape is used as a guide to make other objects.
2. A generic model or pattern from which other objects are based or derived.

   “Gaelic also benefits from having a readily available template for Celtic minority language revitalisation, derived from Welsh and Irish.”

3. A file or document serving as a basis for others.
4. A macromolecule which provides a pattern for the synthesis of another molecule.

   “Classically, the functional product of coding genes is a protein whose synthesis is directed by an mRNA-template.”

5. A partially defined class or function, that can be instantiated in a variety of ways depending on the instantiation arguments.
6. A strip of metal used in boiler-making, pierced with a series of holes, and serving as a guide in marking out a line of rivet-holes.
7. Synonym of temple.

   “The template length is adjusted to the proper fabric width. Then the sharp pins in the template ends are hooked into the selvedge edges (with the template open).”

verb

1. To set up or mark off using a template.

   “Only that part of the floor timber that bears on the planking and keel need be templated; […]”

2. To provide a template or pattern for.

   “Metal phosphates that are templated by transition-metal complexes are rare.”

3. (transitive)To synthesize by means of a template.