mimic

[mim-ik]

verb (used with object)

mimicked, mimicking 

1. to imitate or copy in action, speech, etc., often playfully or derisively.

   Synonyms: counterfeit, simulate, impersonate, mock, follow

2. to imitate in a servile or unthinking way; ape.

3. to be an imitation of; simulate; resemble closely.

noun

1. a person who mimics, especially a performer skilled in mimicking others.

2. a copy or imitation of something.

3. a performer in a mime.

adjective

1. imitating or copying something, often on a smaller scale.

   a mimic battle.

   Synonyms: mock

2. apt at or given to imitating; imitative; simulative.

mimic

/ ˈmɪmɪk /

verb

1. to imitate (a person, a manner, etc), esp for satirical effect; ape

   known mainly for his ability to mimic other singers

2. to take on the appearance of; resemble closely

   certain flies mimic wasps

3. to copy closely or in a servile manner

noun

1. a person or an animal, such as a parrot, that is clever at mimicking

2. an animal that displays mimicry

adjective

1. of, relating to, or using mimicry; imitative

2. simulated, make-believe, or mock

Other Word Forms

• mimicker noun
• unmimicked adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of mimic¹

First recorded in 1580–90; from Latin mīmicus, from Greek mīmikós; equivalent to mime + -ic

Word History and Origins

Origin of mimic¹

C16: from Latin mīmicus, from Greek mimikos, from mimos _mime

Example Sentences

The black-colored beans are dark chocolate espresso flavored, while the brown beans are milk chocolate flavored, meant to mimic the robustness and sweetness of a cappuccino.

Read more on Salon

Polarization mimics anxiety or depression, with symptoms of withdrawal, broken relationships and constant stress.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

These drugs, which mimic a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite, are commonly prescribed for diabetes and weight management.

Read more on Science Daily

If anything, as the U.S. increasingly mimics China and Russia’s nationalistic, state-directed economies and transactional global engagement model, it is imperative that other world leaders commit to an open, free, rules-based international order.

Read more on Barron's

Because Shelley came up with “Frankenstein” as an 18-year-old newlywed who’d just lost a baby, her message gets boiled down to gender: Women birth life, men mimic it.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ape 
• look like 
• mirror 
• resemble 
• simulate