What does mimic mean?
To mimic is to copy or reproduce someone's appearance, voice, movements, speech, or characteristic habits. The word often suggests an especially accurate or conspicuous imitation, and it may be used in playful, comic, or mocking contexts. As a noun, a mimic is a person who is skilled at copying others, while the term can also refer more generally to something that imitates the form or behaviour of another thing. In computing, mimicry may describe software or robots that reproduce human actions, and in biology it can refer to organisms that resemble other organisms or their surroundings. The word derives from Greek roots associated with actors and imitation, reflecting the long-standing human skill of representing another person convincingly. It is useful when the focus is not merely on copying an object but on recreating a distinctive human or biological pattern.
To imitate the appearance, actions, voice, speech, or mannerisms of someone or something.
"The child mimicked her teacher by putting on a stern expression."
Often implies a noticeable or convincing imitation and may carry a humorous or mocking connotation.
A person who imitates another person's appearance, voice, speech, or behaviour, especially as a performer.
"The crowd gathered around the street mimic to see how accurately he reproduced the politician's gestures."
The noun often suggests a performer or entertainer who specializes in impersonation.
The plural is used for multiple imitators, performers, or things that imitate something else.
"The show featured several gifted mimics who could reproduce famous speeches and songs."
The word comes from the Greek mimos, an actor or performer whose skill lay in convincing imitation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mimic come from?
The word comes through Latin from Greek mimos, meaning an actor or performer, associated with the art of imitation. The adjective-like root mimikos, meaning imitative or mimic-like, also contributed through the Latin mimicus. English adopted the word in the late 16th century, initially referring to an imitator and later also to the act of imitation.
Related word forms
How mimic is actually used
The word can be affectionate, humorous, or mocking depending on context. In technical uses, especially in computing and biology, it describes a system or organism that imitates the characteristics of another.
Easily confused with mimic
A mimic imitates another person's appearance, voice, or behaviour, whereas a mime traditionally performs using gestures and does not speak.