-tə̇kəl, -tēk- adjective
Etymology: probably from Medieval Latin identic us (from Late Latin identitas identity + Latin -icus -ic) + English -al
1. : expressing or effecting identity — used chiefly of propositions in logic and of equations and operations in mathematics
2. : being the same : having complete identity
the identical place where we stopped before
— often used with same or very for emphasis
the same identical menu
the very identical house
3.
a. : showing exact likeness : characterized by such entire agreement in qualities and attributes that identity may be assumed — often used with with and sometimes with to
a replica that is identical with the original
b. : very similar : having such close resemblance and such minor difference as to be essentially the same : appearing or seeming exactly alike
saw the identical dress on sale for three dollars
the two plants were identical
— often used with with or to
his examination paper was identical to his brother's
political issues are seldom identical with religious
4. : having the same cause or origin
identical infections
Synonyms: see like , same