# threat model

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/threat-model
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a plan that identifies possible dangers to a system and explains how to stop them. You use this to figure out who might attack your computer or business and what they want.

For teachers: a structured representation of all the information that affects the security of an application or system. It identifies potential adversaries, attack vectors, and assets to be protected to inform defensive strategy.

## Examples

- The team created a threat model to protect the new app.
- Before writing any code, the security engineers developed a threat model to identify which parts of the database were most vulnerable to hackers.
- A robust threat model must account not only for external malicious actors but also for internal risks such as accidental data leaks or the compromise of privileged administrative credentials.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a technical compound noun in cybersecurity and risk management contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.