mockup

This term describes a physical or digital surrogate used to visualize a final product before it is actually manufactured or coded. It bridges the gap between a conceptual sketch and a finished object, allowing stakeholders to evaluate spatial relationships, aesthetics, and usability without the cost of full production.

In digital design, the term specifically refers to a static representation of a user interface. It differs from a prototype in that it focuses on visual appearance rather than interactive functionality, serving as a high-fidelity blueprint for developers to follow.