simulate

verb

ˈsim-yə-ˌlāt How to pronounce simulate (audio)
Definition of simulatenext
as in to pretend
to present a false appearance of cosmetics that simulate a suntan

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb simulate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of simulate are affect, assume, counterfeit, feign, pretend, and sham. While all these words mean "to put on a false or deceptive appearance," simulate suggests a close imitation of the appearance of something.

cosmetics that simulate a suntan

When can affect be used instead of simulate?

In some situations, the words affect and simulate are roughly equivalent. However, affect implies making a false show of possessing, using, or feeling.

affected an interest in art

When would assume be a good substitute for simulate?

Although the words assume and simulate have much in common, assume often implies a justifiable motive rather than an intent to deceive.

assumed an air of cheerfulness around the patients

Where would counterfeit be a reasonable alternative to simulate?

The words counterfeit and simulate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, counterfeit implies achieving the highest degree of verisimilitude of any of these words.

an actor counterfeiting drunkenness

How is feign related to other words for simulate?

Feign implies more artful invention than pretend, less specific mimicry than simulate.

feigned sickness

When is pretend a more appropriate choice than simulate?

The synonyms pretend and simulate are sometimes interchangeable, but pretend implies an overt and sustained false appearance.

pretended that nothing had happened

When is it sensible to use sham instead of simulate?

The meanings of sham and simulate largely overlap; however, sham implies an obvious falseness that fools only the gullible.

shammed a most unconvincing limp

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 simulate The models gradually simulate the physics of the atmosphere through learning from observational data, AI forecasting experts have told Axios. —Andrew Freedman, Axios, 24 Feb. 2025 The researchers simulated early Earth and how its primordial environment affected the color of the planet’s oceans. —David Bressan, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025 The Alabama Rig An Alabama rig simulates an entire school of baitfish by bringing five or more swimbaits together in one seamless rig. —Derek Horner, Outdoor Life, 20 Feb. 2025 While some internal arms of rabbits stimulate the G-spot through vibrations, this one actually simulates the thrusts of a partner. —Gina Vaynshteyn, Glamour, 20 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for simulate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for simulate
  1. pretend
  2. assume
  3. affect
Verb
  • In most fields workers are prone to deny a problem and even pretend to enjoy the abuse.
    — James L. Edwards III, The Athletic, 13 Mar. 2025
  • Don't punish efficiency by piling on more work or forcing them to sit around pretending to be busy.
    — Jodie Cook, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025
Definition of pretend
Verb
  • The regulatory process in California could take up to a year, assuming that Tesla’s technology proves to be safe, Smith said.
    — Sandra McDonald, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2025
  • So until another shoe drops — assuming there will be another shoe — this deal feels somewhat incomplete for the Penguins.
    — Shayna Goldman, The Athletic, 6 Mar. 2025
Definition of assume
Verb
  • The two countries exchange a series of tit-for-tat levies affecting hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of goods.
    — TIME, TIME, 8 Mar. 2025
  • Due date for individuals and businesses in the entire states of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina and parts of Florida, Tennessee, and Virginia affected by severe storms and flooding from Hurricane Helene (☆) and Hurricane Milton.
    — Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025
Definition of affect

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Cite this Entry

“Simulate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/simulate. Accessed 15 Mar. 2025.

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