simulator

American  

[sim-yuh-ley-ter] / ˈsɪm yəˌleɪ tər /

noun

1. a person or thing that simulates.

2. a machine for simulating certain environmental and other conditions for purposes of training or experimentation.

   a flight simulator.

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simulator British  

/ ˈsɪmjʊˌleɪtə /

noun

1. any device or system that simulates specific conditions or the characteristics of a real process or machine for the purposes of research or operator training

   space simulator

2. a person who simulates

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Usage

What does simulator mean? A simulator is a program or machine that simulates a real-life situation, meaning that it creates a virtual version of it, often for the purpose of instruction or experiment, such as a flight simulator.Simulators are frequently used to train people in complicated and often dangerous tasks, such as performing surgery or flying an airplane. Simulators allow them to learn and gain experience in such tasks without the risks. Rarely, the word is also sometimes used to refer to a person who is simulating (faking) an action.Example: This flight simulator allows pilots to become comfortable with the controls without having to do so during an actual flight.

Etymology

Origin of simulator

First recorded in 1825–35, simulator is from the Latin word simulātor imitator, counterfeiter. See simulate, -tor

Example Sentences

She suggests borrowers go to StudentAid.gov and use the loan simulator tool to get a sense of their options.

From MarketWatch

It also has had discussions with the owner of a sprawling Plano complex with pickleball courts, a golf simulator and a gaming arcade, said people with knowledge of those conversations.

From The Wall Street Journal

“So far, so good,” said Enzo Sanchez, 22, when asked on a recent weekday if he was enjoying “American Icon,” which culminates in a 4D theater experience that serves as a mini motion simulator.

From Los Angeles Times

One way to improve coordination and situational awareness, Cova said, could be to train emergency managers the way air traffic controllers are trained with simulators.

From Los Angeles Times

Next, he is heading to the McLaren factory, to analyse this year, and for work in the simulator, already thinking about next season.

From BBC