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Synonyms

resemblance

American  
[ri-zem-bluhns] / rɪˈzɛm bləns /

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 British  
/ 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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Related Words

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.

Other Word Forms

  • nonresemblance noun
  • preresemblance noun
  • resemblant adjective

Etymology

Origin of resemblance

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Hamate fractures might not be as severe as elbow ligament tears, but their root cause bears a surprising resemblance.

From The Wall Street Journal

The company claimed it depicted a deliberately implausible, parodic scenario that bore no resemblance to real airport security procedures.

From BBC

She said that resemblance made the grief even harder to bear.

From BBC

Police believe they have taken advantage of their resemblance to cover their tracks.

From BBC

Two commemorative coins, released by the Royal Australian Mint and bearing a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, have been criticised for their lack of resemblance to the late monarch.

From BBC