The word "imitate" is spelled as /ˈɪmɪteɪt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "ihm", which is a short "i" sound followed by an "m" consonant. The second syllable is pronounced as "ih-tayt", which starts with a short "i" sound followed by a "t" consonant and ends with a long "ay" sound and a "t" consonant. The spelling of "imitate" accurately reflects its pronunciation, making it easier for people to learn and use in their daily communication.
Imitate is a verb that refers to the act of copying or replicating someone or something's actions, behavior, or appearance in order to resemble or seem similar to them. It entails consciously mimicking another's mannerisms, gestures, speech patterns, or style in an attempt to emulate or impersonate them.
When someone imitates, they engage in intentional efforts to reproduce the characteristics, qualities, or traits of others, whether alive or fictional. This can be seen in various contexts, such as in the performing arts, where actors often imitate real-life individuals or create fictional characters by adopting their physicality and expressions.
Imitating is not limited to human behavior; it can also refer to the replication of non-living things, like objects, sounds, or artworks. For example, an artist may imitate the brushstrokes or techniques used by a renowned painter to create a similar piece of art.
The purpose of imitation can vary. People may imitate for admiration, entertainment, learning, or even mockery. It can serve as a form of flattery or as a means of acquiring new skills or knowledge by observing and replicating successful actions or methods.
In summary, to imitate means to intentionally copy or mimic the actions, behavior, appearance, or characteristics of someone or something with the aim of resembling or impersonating them, whether in terms of human behavior, artistic expression, or non-living objects.
• To copy.
• To follow, or to endeavour to follow, another in manners, style, &c.; to copy generally.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* 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.
The word imitate originated from the Latin word imitari, which means to copy, imitate or to strive to equal or surpass. This Latin term is believed to derive from the Proto-Indo-European root aim- meaning to imitate or to copy. It is closely related to the Latin word aemulus, meaning emulating or rivaling.