Definition of reproductionnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun reproduction differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of reproduction are copy, duplicate, facsimile, and replica. While all these words mean "a thing made to closely resemble another," reproduction implies an exact or close imitation of an existing thing.

reproductions from the museum's furniture collection

When might copy be a better fit than reproduction?

In some situations, the words copy and reproduction are roughly equivalent. However, copy applies especially to one of a number of things reproduced mechanically.

printed 1000 copies of the lithograph

When would duplicate be a good substitute for reproduction?

The meanings of duplicate and reproduction largely overlap; however, duplicate implies a double or counterpart exactly corresponding to another thing.

a duplicate of a house key

When could facsimile be used to replace reproduction?

The synonyms facsimile and reproduction are sometimes interchangeable, but facsimile suggests a close reproduction often of graphic matter that may differ in scale.

a facsimile of a rare book

Where would replica be a reasonable alternative to reproduction?

While the synonyms replica and reproduction are close in meaning, 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

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 reproduction Over the past decade, yaks’ body size and weight have gone down, as well as their fertility – with just a 20% success rate in natural reproduction and fertilization, said Fang, the lead scientist, in a news release by Zhejiang University last year. Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 25 July 2026 That means there are also red flags to watch out for that indicate something is a reproduction. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 July 2026 But the ability to eat larger prey items might pay off in terms of reproduction. Jay Kakade july 23, Refractor, 23 July 2026 While reproductions can be excellent options, there should be a different price point. Heather Bien, Southern Living, 18 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for reproduction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reproduction
Noun
  • Fort Worth police did not immediately provide copies of affidavits supporting the suspects’ arrests.
    Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 2026
  • Because if those questions — including the fundamental one — aren't being answered, better copy probably isn't the fix.
    Sonia Thompson, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • The walls are decorated with lamps and replica guns, and in future the group plans to add a projector and an air-conditioning unit.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 3 Aug. 2026
  • This included getting access to a replica of the infamous red Ferrari, according to Carol Smith, executive director of communications for Glenbrook High School District 225, which includes Glenbrook North, and an organizer of the photo shoot.
    Alexandra Murphy, Chicago Tribune, 3 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Reproduction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reproduction. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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