Imitation
The act or result of copying someone or something; a thing that imitates or resembles another.
nounImitation
The act or result of copying someone or something; a thing that imitates or resembles another.
nounImagine This
Imagine an artist creating a flawless copy of a famous painting, so precise that viewers mistake it for the original—until they notice the signature is unfamiliar.
Sounds Like
ih-MI-tay-shun
Looks Like
Resembles the verb imitate; visually suggests a copy or replica.
Remember This
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery; also note the difference between imitation (copy) and originality (new creation).
Other Forms
Connect With
copy, replica, mimicry, simulation, emulation, authenticity, originality
Note
Imitation emphasizes copying rather than originality. In everyday use, 'imitation' often implies a lower-quality or non-authentic replica (as in imitation leather). Distinguish from 'real' or 'authentic' objects when precision matters.
Study Deeper
- The painting was a faithful imitation of a Van Gogh, sold as a study in brushwork rather than as an original.
- The bag was made of imitation leather but looked almost indistinguishable from genuine leather.
From Latin imitātiō, from imitārī 'to imitate'.
Mnemonic: imitate + -tion = imitation; the word literally signals the act of copying rather than creating something original.
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Ally
nounA person or group that cooperates with or supports another; a partner in a shared effort. The verb form 'to ally' means to join with another for mutual benefit.
Scrutinize
verbTo examine closely; to investigate thoroughly.
Enlighten
verbTo give someone greater knowledge, understanding, or insight about a subject; to illuminate or clarify.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abasement
nounThe act or instance of humiliating or degrading someone; the state of being lowered in dignity or status.
Absurdity
nounThe quality or state of being wildly unreasonable, illogical, or ridiculous; something that is completely contrary to reason or common sense.
Accent
nounA distinctive way of pronouncing words; the act of emphasizing a syllable or word (as a verb, to accent means to emphasize).
Accolade
nounAn honor; a public expression of praise or an award.
Acrimony
nounBitterness of speech or manner; ill feeling
Acronym
nounA word formed from the initial letters of a phrase, pronounced as a single word and used as a shorthand for the full name (for example, NASA or radar).