Definition

1. Noun:
   • The resemblance of one animal species to another species or to natural objects: This biological phenomenon provides concealment and protection from predators. It is a form of adaptation.
   • The act or art of mimicking; imitative behavior: This refers to the action of copying the speech, mannerisms, or appearance of someone or something else, often for entertainment, learning, or deception.

Usage and Examples

• Biological Resemblance:

  • The insect's mimicry of a dead leaf is so perfect that predators often overlook it.
  • Some harmless snakes exhibit mimicry of venomous species to avoid being attacked.

• Imitative Behavior:

  • The comedian is famous for his brilliant mimicry of famous politicians.
  • Parrots are capable of vocal mimicry, repeating words and sounds they hear.

Advanced Usage

• Batesian mimicry: A form of biological mimicry where a harmless species evolves to imitate the warning signals of a harmful species to deter predators.

  • The viceroy butterfly's resemblance to the monarch is a classic example of Batesian mimicry.

• Müllerian mimicry: A form of biological mimicry where two or more harmful or unpalatable species evolve to resemble each other, reinforcing the learned avoidance by predators.

  • Several species of stinging bees and wasps share similar yellow and black patterns, a case of Müllerian mimicry.

Variants and Related Words

• Mimic (verb/noun): To imitate or copy closely. A person or animal that mimics.

  • He can mimic the teacher's accent perfectly. (verb)
  • The parrot is a talented mimic. (noun)

• Mimetic (adjective): Relating to, characterized by, or exhibiting mimicry.

  • The plant has mimetic adaptations that make it look like a rock.

Synonyms

• Imitation: The action of using someone or something as a model.
• Impersonation: The act of pretending to be another person for entertainment or fraud.
• Apostasis (biological context, less common): Another term for protective resemblance or mimicry.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Protective coloration: Coloration that makes an organism less visible or conspicuous against its environment, which is related to but distinct from mimicry.
• Camouflage: The use of any combination of materials, coloration, or illumination for concealment, often overlapping with the concept of mimicry.

Noun

1. the resemblance of an animal species to another species or to natural objects; provides concealment and protection from predators
2. the act of mimicking; imitative behavior