Definitions

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.

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

Brandon Fellows, who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, had traveled to the conference to sell imitation Immigration and Customs Enforcement uniforms as costumes.

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2026

“You’ve seen that a lot of our competitors have strategies now that are slightly similar to what we do, and I think imitation is the highest form of flattery,” said Lake.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 24, 2026

Frank Readick’s perfect imitation of the commentator at the Hindenburg explosion.

From "Spooked!" by Gail Jarrow

Vocabulary lists containing imitation

Inside Out & Back Again

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!

Achievement First 5th Grade IA 1 Words

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!

"LAFFF"

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!