simulator

noun

sim·​u·​la·​tor ˈsim-yə-ˌlā-tər 

: one that simulates

especially : a device that enables the operator to reproduce or represent under test conditions phenomena likely to occur in actual performance

Examples of simulator in a Sentence

a flight simulator used by pilots

Recent Examples on the Web

Initial tests conducted during the DNC revealed no conclusive evidence of cell-site simulator activity. —Dhruv Mehrotra, WIRED, 10 Jan. 2025

Golf: Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have a new golf simulator league. —Natasha Frost, New York Times, 8 Jan. 2025

Use the Education Department’s loan simulator tool to estimate your monthly payments under various scenarios. —Adam S. Minsky, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025

Also on the links: Gabby Herzig has a helpful explainer about TGL, the new golf simulator league with the sport’s biggest stars, which premieres tonight. —Chris Branch, The Athletic, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

simulate + -or entry 1

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

simulator

noun

sim·​u·​la·​tor ˈsim-yə-ˌlāt-ər 

: one that simulates

especially : a device that enables the operator to experience under test conditions events similar to those likely to occur in a real situation

Medical Definition

simulator

noun

sim·​u·​la·​tor ˈsim-yə-ˌlāt-ər 

: a device that enables the operator to reproduce or represent under test conditions phenomena likely to occur in actual performance

a driving simulator used to study behavior in highway emergencies