simulate

Pronunciation: /ˈsɪmjuleɪt/

verb

Difficulty: common

Definition of simulate

simulate (verb): To imitate or reproduce the appearance, behavior, or character of something, often with the intent of resembling it closely or understanding its nature.

Example: The flight simulator was designed to simulate the experience of piloting a real aircraft, down to the turbulence and controls.

Best for: common-difficulty vocabulary; learners who already know "emulate" or "mirror"; GRE Verbal (Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence); SAT Reading & Writing (Words in Context).

Origin of simulate

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: simulare

Original meaning: to imitate, pretend

How it evolved: Originally used in the context of pretending or feigning, the word evolved to encompass broader meanings of imitation and reproduction.

Derived from Latin 'simulatus,' past participle of 'simulare,' meaning 'to imitate' or 'pretend,' which in turn comes from 'similis,' meaning 'like' or 'similar.'

First known use: Mid-16th century

How to Remember simulate

Think of 'simulate' as 'similar' + 'ate'—to 'make similar' or 'devour an imitation' of something.

Synonyms for simulate

Antonyms of simulate

simulate in a Sentence

  1. The flight simulator was designed to simulate the experience of piloting a real aircraft, down to the turbulence and controls.
  2. In an attempt to understand human emotions better, the AI was programmed to simulate empathy during conversations.
  3. The actor's ability to simulate exhaustion so convincingly earned him critical acclaim for his performance.

simulate in Literature & Culture

The concept of simulation is central to many dystopian works of fiction, such as 'The Matrix,' where simulated realities blur the line between appearance and truth.

Usage Notes

While commonly used in technical or scientific contexts (e.g., simulations of physical systems), 'simulate' can also convey a sense of pretense or artificiality, and may sometimes carry a connotation of deception depending on context.

Why simulate Matters for GRE & SAT

This word is frequently tested on the GRE due to its versatility in describing processes, behaviors, and phenomena in academic and scientific contexts. Knowing its synonyms and nuanced meanings is essential for verbal reasoning success.

Word Family

simulation (noun)
The act or process of imitating a real-world system or scenario.
simulator (noun)
A device or system that replicates the conditions of a particular environment or activity.
simulative (adjective)
Pertaining to or characterized by imitation or replication.

Did You Know?

  • The term 'simulate' is widely used in the gaming and aviation industries, where simulations help train pilots or immerse players in virtual environments.
  • NASA uses highly advanced simulators to prepare astronauts for space missions, replicating conditions like zero gravity and extreme temperatures.
  • In philosophy, the term 'simulation' has been explored by thinkers like Jean Baudrillard, who argued that modern society increasingly lives in a world of simulations detached from reality.
  • emulate
  • feign
  • mimic
  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior

More Vocabulary Words Starting with S

  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior