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 The replica of the ARM is an electronic chip board during a collaborative ceremony launching a partnership between Malaysia and ARM Holdings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on March 5, 2025. Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 18 Feb. 2026 The archeological site offers an opportunity to experience native gardens, artifacts, a replica Kumeyaay village, and ancient bedrock mortars. Pomerado News, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026 The museum features a re-creation of an Ohio River landing from the 1800s, a replica of a steamboat and an aerial view of the city from the first half of the 20th century. Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer, 18 Feb. 2026 Also located in the Souq Al Matar, which is a replica of a traditional Qatari market, is Dukkan. Rachel Morris, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for replica
Recent Examples of Synonyms for replica
Noun
  • Conceived by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, the sculptural, curvy building transformed the image of Australia when it was unveiled in 1973.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Feb. 2026
  • But his man-of-the-people image has suffered some serious blows over the past year, and a corruption scandal has proved particularly damaging to a president elected on a promise to clean up politics.
    Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • With house‑inspired production and a darker, more experimental sound, the mini-album — which sold more than half a million copies in four days — hinted at the group’s creative ambition.
    Rebecca Cairns, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026
  • The event will also include a resource fair, a Q&A session, a book signing and a free copy of one of Baszile’s books for attendees who arrive early, while supplies last.
    Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The Venckus twins, Nedas and Nojus, are ready to change that.
    Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 24 Feb. 2026
  • All while Bhatia and the Højgaard twins prove themselves at age 24, and while Coody, Gerard and 23-year-old Japanese talent Ryo Hisatsune have gotten off to hot starts.
    Brody Miller, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Given how much biomedical research has been conducted in space, the scarcity of research on reproduction surprised me.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 Feb. 2026
  • That combination — a limited geographic range, low reproduction rates and early life stages in shallow waters — raises real concerns about the fish’s future.
    Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 19 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • In November 2025, Colossal acquired Viagen, a cloning company which has licensed the technologies used to bring us Dolly the sheep, a clone born in 1996.
    Mike Snider, USA Today, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Lots of time-travel, mind-melding, skin-shedding, clones, and dream invasion episodes to blend in with the cross-species relationships and typical high school melodrama.
    Jeff Spry, Space.com, 14 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Among writers, there is always a risk of mutual imitation, conscious or not.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 18 Feb. 2026
  • The two men are also seen preparing food in a kitchen, holding an American flag in front of an imitation Statue of Liberty and sitting in a convertible.
    Brie Stimson, FOXNews.com, 18 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Minutes later, wearing a blue lanyard with a solid gold medal hanging across his chest, Tkachuk called into the stands for Gaudreau’s two children to join the official team picture.
    Chris Kudialis, Miami Herald, 23 Feb. 2026
  • Patel would go on to post pictures of him with the team members in the locker room after the game, applauding their win.
    Zach LaChance, The Washington Examiner, 23 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Many files appear to be duplicates, however.
    Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Overbuying pantry items leads to waste and unnecessary duplicates.
    Sheila Kim, The Spruce, 16 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Replica.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/replica. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

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