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

To validate the new approach, researchers first conducted experiments inside a rain simulator, testing different droplet sizes, rainfall intensities, photovoltaic modules, and sensor placements. — Muskan Bhatia, Interesting Engineering, 5 Nov. 2026

In an event Wednesday morning revealing her as the first brand partner of Dick’s Sporting Goods and Foot Locker, the WNBA star tried to sink a few putts on a simulator before demonstrating her expertise at the arcade basketball shooting game. — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 4 Nov. 2026

The Palm Beach County School District paid for her license as part of the high school's specialized aviation academy, in which students practice flying on simulators and drones. — CBS News, 2 Nov. 2026

Advocates have warned that cell-site simulators could be used to unconstitutionally track people not being sought out by law enforcement. — Josephine Stratman, New York Daily News, 29 Oct. 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