mimetic

adjective

mi·​met·​ic mə-ˈme-tik 

mī-

1

: imitative

2

: relating to, characterized by, or exhibiting mimicry

mimetic coloring of a butterfly

mimetically

mə-ˈme-ti-k(ə-)lē 

mī-

adverb

Synonyms

• apish
• canned
• emulative
• epigonic
• epigonous
• formulaic
• imitative
• mimic
• slavish
• unoriginal

Examples of mimetic in a Sentence

boys have a tendency toward mimetic behavior, often imitating their fathers at a fairly early age

Recent Examples on the Web

Indeed, what is happening might be better explained by the field of mimetic theory, which recognizes that imitation can drive decisions, stressing the role of volition and social learning in human arrangements. —Nicholas Eberstadt, Foreign Affairs, 10 Oct. 2024

An enduring favorite, the satirical coming-of-age comedy (from director Mark Waters based on a script by Fey) has launched a bevy of endlessly quotable, referential and mimetic turns of phrase. —Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 9 Sep. 2024

Social media managers took note of the album art’s low-effort, counterintuitive chicness, and soon, X and Instagram were flooded with mimetic interpretations. —Arielle Gordon, Pitchfork, 25 July 2024

Arguably, the thing that makes acting an art form, rather than just a series of mimetic gestures, is the actor’s interpretation. —Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 4 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin mimeticus, from Greek mimētikos, from mimeisthai to imitate, from mimos mime

First Known Use

1637, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

mimetic

adjective

mi·​met·​ic mə-ˈmet-ik 

mī-

: relating to, characterized by, or exhibiting mimicry

mimetic coloring of a fish

Medical Definition

mimetic

adjective

mi·​met·​ic mə-ˈmet-ik  mī- 

: simulating the action or effect of

—usually used in combination

sympathomimetic drugs

adrenocorticomimetic activity