Synonyms of imitation

imitation 1 of 2

noun

ˌi-mə-ˈtā-shən 

as in reproduction

something that is made to look exactly like something else

challenged me to tell the real roses from the silk imitations

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reproduction
• copy
• replica
• version
• clone
• duplicate
• replication
• mock
• facsimile
• dupe
• duplication
• carbon
• reduplication
• carbon copy
• dummy
• simulation
• reconstruction
• counterfeit
• miniature
• forgery
• fake
• knockoff
• rubber stamp
• rip-off
• approximation
• impression
• likeness
• print
• sham
• re-creation
• image
• semblance
• reincarnation
• phony
• mock-up
• spare
• imprint
• extra
• shadow
• reserve

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• prototype
• original
• archetype

imitation

2 of 2

adjective

as in faux

being such in appearance only and made with or manufactured from usually cheaper materials

the stage production uses only imitation diamonds, as real gems would be prohibitively expensive

Synonyms & Similar Words

• faux
• synthetic
• simulated
• fake
• artificial
• imitative
• dummy
• false
• mock
• mimic
• substitute
• ersatz
• manufactured
• counterfeit
• factitious
• pretend
• designer
• bogus
• sham
• process
• man-made
• deceptive
• cultured
• unauthentic
• engineered
• manipulated
• fabricated
• forged
• pseudo
• adulterated
• misleading
• fraudulent
• concocted
• phony
• feigned
• doctored
• spurious
• pinchbeck
• affected
• tampered (with)
• fudged
• juggled
• brummagem

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• real
• natural
• genuine
• true
• authentic
• legitimate
• bona fide
• valuable
• quality
• pure
• premium
• unadulterated

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of imitation

Noun

The shoes have also inspired countless imitations from other brands, making the popular design more affordable and accessible, while the original remains highly coveted among shoe lovers. — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 27 July 2026

Bosses recently told Deadline that microdrama has moved well beyond cheap, schlocky imitations of traditional TV and film. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 23 July 2026

And Chinese imitation isn’t something that will inherently kill the American frontier labs. — Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 22 July 2026

So, it's been up to tech journalists to investigate and connect some dots, but there's certainly reason to believe that Skyrover and Xtra are true clones, not knock-offs or imitations. — Jim Fisher, PC Magazine, 21 July 2026