Can anyone explain what a 3d model actually is?

[Karmexi]

Is a 3d model just the name for the computer image that gets printed in a 3d printer, or is it the actual thing that gets printed? sorry if this is a dumb question!

 

[Quantum]

I'm not really a 3D printing guy, but from what I know models are just designs of the 3D object that you're going to print. There are a bunch of different places online where you can buy and sell 3D models (like CGTrader and TurboSquid) and different technologies that can be used to create 3D models (like 3DSlash)