How Do You Spell IMITATION?

Pronunciation: [ˌɪmɪtˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)

The word "imitation" is spelled with three syllables, /ɪmɪˈteɪʃən/. The first syllable is "i" pronounced as in the word "it", while the second syllable is "mi" pronounced as in "me". The third syllable is "tation", with the stress on the second-to-last syllable. This word refers to the act of copying or reproducing something, often with the aim of replicating its original form or style. It is regularly used in fashion and art, as well as in speech and writing.

IMITATION Meaning and Definition

  1. Imitation refers to the act or process of copying or mimicking someone or something. It involves replicating the behavior, appearance, or qualities of another person, object, or phenomenon.

    In terms of human behavior, imitation is a fundamental learning mechanism that allows individuals to acquire new skills, knowledge, and behaviors by observing and imitating others. Young children, in particular, often learn through imitation, watching and copying the actions of their parents, siblings, or peers. Imitation can also be seen in various aspects of social interaction, such as adopting the manners, speech patterns, or clothing styles of a particular group, often referred to as "imitation of fashion" or "social mimicry."

    Imitation can also be observed in the animal kingdom, where certain species imitate the appearance or behavior of others as a survival strategy. For example, some animals exhibit "protective mimicry," imitating the physical characteristics of a more dangerous or venomous species to deter predators. Similarly, animals may engage in "behavioral mimicry," copying the actions or sounds of different species to deceive or attract prey or potential mates.

    In the realm of art, imitation is often associated with the reproduction or replication of existing artworks. Artists may use imitation as a means of honing their skills or paying homage to renowned masterpieces. However, imitation can also be seen as a form of forgery when intentionally creating a replica with the intention to deceive or defraud others.

    Overall, imitation encompasses the act of copying or reproducing the qualities or actions of another person, object, or phenomenon, playing a crucial role in human learning, social dynamics, animal survival mechanisms, and artistic creation.

  2. That which is made or produced as a copy or likeness; a copy after a form or original; the act of following in manner, &c.; a counterfeit; a copy in inferior materials; a work of art resembling something which we know it is not.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for IMITATION *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for IMITATION

Etymology of IMITATION

The word "imitation" comes from the Latin word "imitatio", which itself is derived from the verb "imitari", meaning "to copy" or "to imitate". This Latin term can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "aim-", which carries the sense of "to copy" or "to mimic". The modern English word "imitation" has retained its original meaning of replicating or reproducing something, often with the intention of resembling or mimicking it closely.

Idioms with the word IMITATION

  • Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. The idiom "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery" means that when someone imitates or copies another person's behavior, style, or ideas, it is a way of showing admiration and respect for that person. It suggests that imitating someone is a genuine compliment and an acknowledgement of their worth or talent.

Similar spelling words for IMITATION

Plural form of IMITATION is IMITATIONS

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