replicate

[rep-li-kit, rep-li-keyt]

adjective

1. Also replicated. folded; bent back on itself.

verb (used with object)

replicated, replicating 

1. to bend or fold back.

   a replicated leaf.

2. to repeat, duplicate, or reproduce, especially for experimental purposes.

   We were unable to replicate the same results in the field.

3. Genetics.,  (of a cell) to make a copy of (its DNA).

   The cell replicates its DNA to begin the process of cell division.

verb (used without object)

replicated, replicating 

1. (especially of DNA) to undergo replication;

   Our DNA replicates at a rate of 50 nucleotides per second.

noun

1. something that is replicated, as an experiment or procedure.

replicate

verb

1. (also intr) to make or be a copy of; reproduce

2. to fold (something) over on itself; bend back

3. to reply to

adjective

1. folded back on itself

   a replicate leaf

Other Word Forms

• nonreplicate adjective
• nonreplicated adjective
• replicative adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of replicate¹

First recorded in 1525–35; from Late Latin replicātus, past participle of replicāre “to fold back”; re-, ply ², -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of replicate¹

C19: from Latin replicātus bent back; see _replica

Example Sentences

That is what cinema is all about, an indefinable presence, faces full of expression, voices that cannot be easily replicated, eyes that channel energy that can move and frighten and surprise us.

From Los Angeles Times

One obstacle is that designers haven’t been able to replicate the very crucial human sense of touch or operate with human-like dexterity.

From Los Angeles Times

The immersive experience allows visitors to take photos and videos on a series of sets replicating those in “The Fate of Ophelia” music video.

From Los Angeles Times

Researchers with the Nature Conservancy may release stars in cages in Monterey Bay as soon as September, replicating a step Hodin’s team took before sending them out on their own.

From Los Angeles Times

Here, Baumbach finds the emotional center, focusing on all of the small, romantic parts of life that can’t be replicated by an hour in the makeup chair before a day of filming begins.

From Salon

Related Words

• clone 
• depict 
• duplicate 
• imitate 
• mirror 
• reflect 
• repeat 
• reproduce 
• simulate