English Dictionary: imitate | by the DICT Development Group |
2 results for imitate | |
From WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006) [wn]: | |
From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]: | |
Imitate \Im"i*tate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Imitated}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Imitating}.] [L. imitatus, p. p. of imitari to imitate; of unknown origin. Cf. {Image}.] 1. To follow as a pattern, model, or example; to copy or strive to copy, in acts, manners etc. Despise wealth and imitate a dog. --Cowlay. 2. To produce a semblance or likeness of, in form, character, color, qualities, conduct, manners, and the like; to counterfeit; to copy. A place picked out by choice of best alive The Nature's work by art can imitate. --Spenser. This hand appeared a shining sword to weild, And that sustained an imitated shield. --Dryden. 3. (Biol.) To resemble (another species of animal, or a plant, or inanimate object) in form, color, ornamentation, or instinctive habits, so as to derive an advantage thereby; sa, when a harmless snake imitates a venomous one in color and manner, or when an odorless insect imitates, in color, one having secretion offensive to birds. |