Definition of replicanext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun replica differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of replica are copy, duplicate, facsimile, and reproduction. While all these words mean "a thing made to closely resemble another," replica implies the exact reproduction of a particular item in all details, but not always in the same scale.

a replica of the Mayflower
miniature replicas of classic cars

When would copy be a good substitute for replica?

The words copy and replica can be used in similar contexts, but copy applies especially to one of a number of things reproduced mechanically.

printed 1000 copies of the lithograph

When is duplicate a more appropriate choice than replica?

The synonyms duplicate and replica are sometimes interchangeable, but duplicate implies a double or counterpart exactly corresponding to another thing.

a duplicate of a house key

When could facsimile be used to replace replica?

While the synonyms facsimile and replica are close in meaning, facsimile suggests a close reproduction often of graphic matter that may differ in scale.

a facsimile of a rare book

Where would reproduction be a reasonable alternative to replica?

In some situations, the words reproduction and replica are roughly equivalent. However, reproduction implies an exact or close imitation of an existing thing.

reproductions from the museum's furniture collection

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of replica During the family’s ownership, nearly every window was replaced with an exact replica of the original, while the plumbing, wiring, electrical systems, insulation, heating, and air conditioning were upgraded. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 2 Sep. 2026 In one, the students used household items to create a replica of the Batmobile, Shree says. Liz Wegerer, IEEE Spectrum, 31 Aug. 2026 Today, replicas of various degrees of accuracy are readily available. David Szondy august 30, New Atlas, 30 Aug. 2026 After a project is complete, actors must sign off and be paid the equivalent of an in-person performance if their replica is used. Los Angeles Times, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for replica
Recent Examples of Synonyms for replica
Noun
  • The optical payload successfully demonstrated angles-only navigation using live-feed images and an algorithm embedded within its payload electronics, enabling closed-loop control between the payload and the spacecraft, as per the release.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 6 Sep. 2026
  • But by halftime, the image escaped those few inches as the Pride of the Southland Band gave Parton’s most enduring symbol a much larger stage.
    Ira Gorawara, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Good Spirits Everyone should have a copy of this book on their bar cart.
    Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Stanford scientists will also perform a 3-D scan and print a copy of the tooth for Midpen to use for public outreach and education.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Unfortunately, a particle returning from a ballistic flight is moving fast while its stationary twin is not.
    Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 11 Sep. 2026
  • For those who plan to spend little time cooped up, the Standard or Standard Twin rooms (featuring a queen/full bed or two twins, respectively) are the way to go.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The exhibition is mostly screens, projections and reproductions, with a handful of great works from the 16th and 17th centuries and feels superficial at times.
    Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 8 Sep. 2026
  • These reproductions are surprisingly effective, partly because the tapestry was made by many hands to begin with, and free embroidery is not an art of finesse.
    John Phipps, New Yorker, 5 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Some females, however, reproduce asexually by making clones of themselves.
    Carrie Arnold Contributing, Quanta Magazine, 2 Sep. 2026
  • That’s in contrast to bacteria, which reproduce asexually, creating clones that are often nearly identical and easy to trace.
    Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 31 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The best form of flattery is imitation, and Robert Pattinson does an incredible impression of Chris Hansen for A24’s new movie, Primetime.
    Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 5 Sep. 2026
  • Il Bisonte For high-quality Florentine leather, skip the stalls around San Lorenzo Market that sell cheap imitations from China and head to this store instead.
    Laura Itzkowitz, Vogue, 4 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Mannion’s big-picture plans require Hurts to play in an Eagles offense that has already looked very different.
    Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
  • The Late Show won for writing, short form comedy, picture editing, technical direction and camerawork, and lighting design — all a fond farewell to the show.
    Bethy Squires, Vulture, 7 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The list of candidates for the top prize duplicates last year’s roster of EOTY nominees, with the exception of Langley taking the spot that went to Morgan Wallen in 2024.
    Chris Willman, Variety, 10 Sep. 2026
  • Objectors also allege some petition sheets were copies, duplicates or did not apply to the specified referendum.
    Addison Wright, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Replica.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/replica. Accessed 13 Sep. 2026.

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