resemblance

[ri-zem-bluhns]

noun

1. the state or fact of resembling; similarity.

   Antonyms: difference

2. a degree, kind, or point of likeness.

   Synonyms: similitude, analogy

3. a likeness, appearance, or semblance of something.

   Synonyms: image

resemblance

/ rɪˈzɛmbləns /

noun

1. the state or quality of resembling; likeness or similarity in nature, appearance, etc

2. the degree or extent to which or the respect in which a likeness exists

3. something resembling something else; semblance; likeness

Other Word Forms

• nonresemblance noun
• preresemblance noun
• resemblant adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of resemblance¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Anglo-French, equivalent to resembl(er) “to resemble” resemble + -ance -ance

Synonym Study

Resemblance, similarity imply that there is a likeness between two or more people or things. Resemblance indicates primarily a likeness in appearance, either a striking one or one which merely serves as a reminder to the beholder: The boy has a strong resemblance to his father. Similarity may imply a surface likeness, but usually suggests also a likeness in other characteristics: There is a similarity in their tastes and behavior.

Example Sentences

“The ever-expanding mission of California’s federalized Guard bears no resemblance to what this Court provisionally upheld in June,” the state wrote in the filing.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The suspect bears a resemblance to pop star Post Malone.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Though the home’s facade appeared throughout the run of the family sitcom, its interior at the time bore no resemblance to the colorful rooms shown on screen.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Start with its resemblance to an eye that’s been knocked out of a skull — identical to a human eyeball, until it displays a carousel of irises.

Read more on Salon

With a heavy beard and a lethal stare, he bears little resemblance to his Frank Rossi character in “CODA.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• affinity 
• closeness 
• coincidence 
• comparison 
• kinship 
• parallel