mimicry
MIM-ik-ree
/ˈmɪmɪkri/
The action or art of imitating someone or something, typically in order to entertain or ridicule; in biology, the resemblance of an animal to another.
Can range from playful imitation to a survival strategy.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'mimos,' which referred to an actor or a mime. It entered English through the world of theater before being adopted by biologists to describe animals that 'act' like other species to survive.
Word relationships
- imitation: Imitation is the general act; mimicry often implies a very close or deceptive resemblance.
- parody: Parody is mimicry specifically for humor or critique.
- originality: Originality is the quality of being new and unique, not a copy.
Commonly confused with
- mockery: Mockery is teasing; mimicry is the act of imitating (which can be used for mockery).
Word family
- mimic (verb/noun): To imitate; a person who imitates.
Collocations
- subconscious mimicry
- perfect mimicry
- biological mimicry
Idioms & expressions
- imitation is the sincerest form of flattery
Example sentences
- "The butterfly's mimicry of a more dangerous species protects it from predators." Biological adaptation.
- "Subconscious mimicry of a friend's gestures can build rapport and trust." Social behavior.
Memory hook
Mimes use mimicry to tell stories without words. Mimicry = Mirroring.
When not to use
Do not use for simple copying of work; it usually involves behavior, appearance, or voice.
Fun facts
- The 'Chameleon Effect' is a psychological phenomenon where people subconsciously mimic the postures and mannerisms of those they are talking to.
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.