Definitions

imitate

[im-i-teyt] / ˈɪm ɪˌteɪt /

VERB

pretend to be; do an impression of

Synonyms

STRONGEST

act like ape assume duplicate echo emulate impersonate mimic mirror mock pretend replicate reproduce resemble simulate

STRONG

Xerox affect borrow burlesque caricature clone copy counterfeit ditto falsify feign follow forge match mime parallel parody personate reduplicate reflect repeat sham spoof travesty

WEAK

be like carbon do like do likewise follow in footsteps follow suit look like model after pattern after play a part put on send up take off

Antonyms

STRONGEST

differ tell the truth

STRONG

disregard

WEAK

be original clash oppose reverse

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.

"I was trying to imitate players - like you do when you're a kid. Now I'm here winning matches. It's awesome."

From BBC • Jul. 2, 2026

“It speaks to his greatness,” said Lakers coach JJ Redick, and, yeah, somebody must be great if they can induce grown men to imitate farm animals.

From Los Angeles Times • May 2, 2026

“The new CEO should lean in to his own strengths and not try to imitate either of his predecessors.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

Renault has decided to imitate the Chinese by developing its new models in two years, and has entrusted the development of its electric Twingo to its research and development centre in China.

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

I imitate the dance as best as I can, which makes them both laugh.

From "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Erika L. Sánchez

Vocabulary lists containing imitate

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The Watsons Go to Birmingham

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

List 11

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!