mimetic

adjective

mi·​met·​ic mə-ˈme-tik How to pronounce mimetic (audio)
mī-
1
2
: relating to, characterized by, or exhibiting mimicry
mimetic coloring of a butterfly
mimetically adverb

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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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 See all Example Sentences for mimetic 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of mimetic was in 1637

Dictionary Entries Near mimetic

Cite this Entry

“Mimetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mimetic. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

mimetic

adjective
mi·​met·​ic mə-ˈmet-ik How to pronounce mimetic (audio)
mī-
: relating to, characterized by, or exhibiting mimicry
mimetic coloring of a fish

Medical Definition

mimetic

adjective
mi·​met·​ic mə-ˈmet-ik How to pronounce mimetic (audio) mī- How to pronounce mimetic (audio)
: simulating the action or effect of
usually used in combination
sympathomimetic drugs
adrenocorticomimetic activity
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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