the close external resemblance of an organism, the mimic, to a different species, the model, such that the mimic benefits from the mistaken identity, usually because predators or parasites are deceived, the imitation of another's behavior or style, especially in art or literature

Formal and Informal Expressions of mimetism

In different contexts, you can replace 'mimetism' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'mimicry, imitation' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'copycatting, apeing' is a commonplace synonym.

mimetism: Explore its Definition & Usage

mimetism Definition

1the close external resemblance of an organism, the mimic, to a different species, the model, such that the mimic benefits from the mistaken identity, usually because predators or parasites are deceived
2the imitation of another's behavior or style, especially in art or literature

Using mimetism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mimetism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The viceroy butterfly is an example of mimetism, as it resembles the monarch butterfly, which is toxic to predators.
Example
The artist's work shows a clear mimetism of the Renaissance style.
Example
The writer's use of language displays a mimetism of Hemingway's prose.

mimetism Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for mimetism

Phrases with mimetism

Batesian mimetism
a form of mimicry where a harmless species has evolved to imitate the warning signals of a harmful species directed at a common predator
Example
The hoverfly exhibits Batesian mimetism by resembling the wasp, which is toxic to predators.
Müllerian mimetism
a form of mimicry where two or more harmful species have evolved to share the same warning signals, reinforcing the learned avoidance by predators
Example
The Heliconius butterflies exhibit Müllerian mimetism by sharing similar warning coloration patterns.
cultural mimetism
the process of cultural borrowing or imitation, where one culture adopts elements from another culture
Example
The popularity of sushi in Western countries is an example of cultural mimetism.

Origins of mimetism

from Greek 'mimetēs', meaning 'imitator'

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Summary: mimetism in Brief

Mimetism [mi-mi-tiz-uhm] refers to the close external resemblance of an organism to a different species, often for protection from predators or parasites. It also denotes the imitation of another's behavior or style, especially in art or literature. Examples include the viceroy butterfly's resemblance to the toxic monarch butterfly and the artist's mimetism of the Renaissance style.