emulator

noun

em·​u·​la·​tor ˈem-yə-ˌlā-tər 

1

: one that emulates

2

: hardware or software that permits programs written for one computer to be run on another computer

Examples of emulator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As mentioned, reverse engineering, the same process used to create emulators, is generally protected under the law, which is why companies like Nintendo and Sony historically haven’t had much success taking them down via the court system. — Ruben Circelli, PC Magazine, 29 Oct. 2026

The application source is published under GPLv3, and the company even includes an in-browser emulator to test custom firmware prior to flashing actual hardware. — ArsTechnica, 26 Oct. 2026

The Delta gaming emulator has been upgraded with a plethora of new goodies and support updates, which include optimizing it for Apple’s iPhone Duo. — Jess Weatherbed, The Verge, 22 Oct. 2026

Some sites also have extras like a dedicated lounge, retro video game emulators, and conference rooms. — Anthony Karcz, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin aemulātor, from aemulārī "to vie with, rival, imitate" + -tor, agent suffix — more at emulate entry 1

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for emulator

• activator
• actuator
• agitator
• alligator
• allocator
• alternator
• animator
• annotator
• applicator
• arbitrator
• aspirator
• aviator