imitation

[im-i-tey-shuhn] / ˌɪm ɪˈteɪ ʃən /

NOUN

simulation, substitution

Synonyms

STRONGEST

clone impersonation impression mimicry parody reflection replica reproduction

STRONG

Xerox apery copy counterfeit counterpart ditto dupe duplicate duplication ersatz fake forgery image likeness match mime mimesis mockery parallel phony picture resemblance ringer semblance sham simulacrum takeoff transcription travesty

WEAK

aping carbon copy counterfeiting echoing matching mirroring paralleling paraphrasing parroting patterning representing

Antonyms

STRONGEST

original

STRONG

difference opposite reality seriousness solemnity

WEAK

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.

The imitation restaurants are a form of flattery, Bob Auerbach, the founder’s stepson, previously told The Times.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

One area traces the evolution of Celtic coins—from the early adoption and imitation of foreign representational prototypes to their abstract reinvention, rooted in Celtic mythology.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

But this side currently look a pale imitation of the team who won the Carabao Cup at Wembley last season.

From BBC • Apr. 25, 2026

Engineers at Northwestern University have created printed artificial neurons that go beyond imitation and can directly interact with real brain cells.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2026

I do my best imitation of Jakob’s voice.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

Vocabulary lists containing imitation

Inside Out & Back Again

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Achievement First 5th Grade IA 1 Words

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"LAFFF"

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