ˈiməˌtāt, usu -ād.+V transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Latin imitatus, past participle of imitari — more at image
1. : to follow as a pattern, model, or example : copy or strive to copy (as in acts, manners, conduct) : assume the form or likeness of
drama that imitates life
2. : to produce a likeness of (as in form, character, color, qualities, conduct, manners) : reproduce , copy
3. : to be or appear like : resemble in external appearance
paper finished to imitate leather
4.
a. : mimic , mock
imitate another's intonations
imitating his father's halting walk
b. : to exhibit or assume mimicry of : mimic 4
chameleons imitating their background
the viceroy butterfly is said to imitate the monarch
5. dialect England : attempt , endeavor — usually followed by an infinitive
that colt will imitate to throw you, give him a chance
Synonyms: see copy