n. & v.
--n.
1. a representation of the external form of an object, e.g. a statue (esp. of a saint etc. as an object of veneration).
2 the character or reputation of a person or thing as generally perceived.
3 an optical appearance or counterpart produced by light or other radiation from an object reflected in a mirror, refracted through a lens, etc.
4 semblance, likeness (God created man in His own image).
5 a person or thing that closely resembles another (is the image of his father).
6 a typical example.
7 a simile or metaphor.
8 a a mental representation. b an idea or conception.
9 Math. a set formed by mapping from another set.
--v.tr.
1. make an image of; portray.
2 reflect, mirror.
3 describe or imagine vividly.
4 typify.
Derivatives:
imageable adj. imageless adj.
Etymology: ME f. OF f. L imago -ginis, rel. to IMITATE