IMITATE


Meaning of IMITATE in English

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

Webster's New International English Dictionary.      Новый международный словарь английского языка Webster.