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

Going beyond resemblance, many incorporate symbols alluding to character traits or occupation or circumstances.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He sees "a bit of family resemblance" between himself and Stout.

Read more on BBC

Officially, “The Beast in Me” isn’t based on any true story, although its resemblance to the events of “The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst” is impossible to ignore.

Read more on Salon

Either way, people love to point out the resemblance with wide eyes and goofy grins, as if it’s my first time hearing the comparison.

Read more on Literature

The birds’ resemblance to ordinary barnyard chickens was deemed remarkable, and many commented upon it.

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Related Words

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