mimic

American  

[mim-ik] / ˈmɪm ɪk /

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.

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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 British  

/ 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

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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

Etymology

Origin of mimic

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

Example Sentences

Some Ukrainian officers say their drone forces need to give more priority to hitting Russian drone teams and logistics—mimicking Rubicon’s approach—rather than focusing mainly on killing Russian infantry.

From The Wall Street Journal

Pharmaceuticals that mimic hormones now provide effective medical tools to combat obesity.

From The Wall Street Journal

Manipulation involves getting a robot to mimic the motions of human hands, and that’s no easy task.

From The Wall Street Journal

These values indicate that only a small portion of the total contaminants actually leaches out under conditions mimicking oral contact.

From Science Daily

Tyler’s fans have mimicked his various styles over the years.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ape
• look like
• mirror
• resemble
• simulate