simulator

noun

sim·​u·​la·​tor ˈsim-yə-ˌlā-tər 

: one that simulates

especially : a device that enables the operator to reproduce or represent under test conditions phenomena likely to occur in actual performance

Examples of simulator in a Sentence

a flight simulator used by pilots

Recent Examples on the Web

Knight’s Tournament put riders on a motion simulator robot arm and shook them like a giant paint mixer. —Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 6 Mar. 2026

Zillow reports a 25% increase in mentions of pickleball courts and golf simulators. —Mary Grace Granados special Contributor, Dallas Morning News, 5 Mar. 2026

Originally supposed to fly Sierra Space Dream Chaser test flight, but payload switched to an inert mass simulator because of potential Dream Chaser delays beyond October launch date. —Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 Mar. 2026

Kaplan had built up an expertise with golf simulators from building one in his garage before the pandemic. —Matthew Geiger, Denver Post, 3 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

simulate + -or entry 1

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for simulator

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

Kids Definition

simulator

noun

sim·​u·​la·​tor ˈsim-yə-ˌlāt-ər 

: one that simulates

especially : a device that enables the operator to experience under test conditions events similar to those likely to occur in a real situation

Medical Definition

simulator

noun

sim·​u·​la·​tor ˈsim-yə-ˌlāt-ər 

: a device that enables the operator to reproduce or represent under test conditions phenomena likely to occur in actual performance

a driving simulator used to study behavior in highway emergencies