How Do You Spell MIMICRY?

Pronunciation: [mˈɪmɪkɹi] (IPA)

The word "mimicry" is spelled with the letters M-I-M-I-C-R-Y. This word refers to the act of imitating or copying the behavior or appearance of other animals or plants. The IPA phonetic transcription of "mimicry" is /ˈmɪm.ɪ.kri/, which shows the pronunciation of the word. The stressed syllable is the second, and it is pronounced with a short "i" sound (/ɪ/). The first syllable is also pronounced with a short "i" sound, while the last syllable is pronounced with a long "ee" sound (/i/).

MIMICRY Meaning and Definition

1. Mimicry is a term used to describe the act or ability of an organism to imitate or resemble a different species, object, or environment. It is a natural phenomenon in which one organism's physical appearance, behavior, or sound closely resembles another organism or an inanimate object for various purposes.

   In the context of nature, mimicry is a defense mechanism employed by certain species to enhance their chances of survival. The mimicking organism may adopt the appearance or behavior of another species that is either venomous, toxic, or possesses a negative association with predators. By resembling this unpalatable or harmful species, the mimicker can deceive predators or potential threats, reducing the likelihood of being attacked or consumed.

   Mimicry can take on different forms, including visual mimicry, wherein an organism imitates the physical appearance or patterns of another species or object. This can involve camouflage, where the organism blends seamlessly into its surroundings or resembles inanimate objects like leaves or twigs. Another form is behavioral mimicry, where an organism mimics the actions or movements of another species to confuse predators or potential prey.

   This concept of mimicry is not limited to the animal kingdom; it can also be observed in human behavior. Humans often engage in mimicry as a social phenomenon where individuals unintentionally or deliberately imitate the gestures, expressions, or speech patterns of others to build rapport or establish social bonds. This form of mimicry is considered an empathetic gesture and aids in understanding and connecting with others.

   In summary, mimicry refers to the imitation or resemblance of one species or object by another for survival, defense, or social purposes. It plays a crucial role in the adaptation and interaction of organisms within their respective environments.

2. The imitation of the voice, gestures, and manner of another, for sport or ridicule.

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

Top Common Misspellings for MIMICRY *

• mimicary 50%
• mimickery 50%

* 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 MIMICRY

• imigry
• mimicy
• mimcry
• gimickry
• mimickry
• mimicks
• memiory
• mimict
• civicry
• fomicary
• mimicey
• mimic5y
• mimiczy
• mimicsy
• mimicao
• mimiclly
• Timacry
• Mimiete
• mimecry
• Mimicly
• jimicky

Etymology of MIMICRY

The etymology of the word "mimicry" can be traced back to the Latin word "mimicus", which in turn derives from the Greek word "mimos". Both "mimicus" and "mimos" referred to an actor or performer who imitated or mimicked others, typically in a theatrical context.

The term "mimicry" began to be used in English in the early 17th century, initially in relation to theatrical imitation or impersonation. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass the act of copying or imitating someone or something in a broader sense. In the biological context, "mimicry" refers to the evolutionary phenomenon where one species imitates another for protection, camouflage, or other advantages.

Similar spelling words for MIMICRY

• mimicker,
• minicar.

Plural form of MIMICRY is MIMICRIES