Definition

Noun: 1. The quality or state of being similar; likeness; resemblance. This is the most common meaning, referring to the condition of sharing characteristics or appearance. 2. A comparison, especially one using "like" or "as". This is a more formal or literary use, referring to the act of drawing a comparison or the figure of speech itself (a simile). 3. (Archaic) A counterpart or duplicate. This older meaning refers to someone or something that closely resembles another.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Similarity):
  • There is a striking similitude between the two paintings in style and color.
  • The similitude in their political views made them natural allies.
• Noun (Comparison):
  • The poet used the similitude of a "summer's day" to describe his beloved.
  • He explained the complex concept through a simple similitude.

Advanced Usage

• "in similitude of": In the likeness or form of.
  • The spirit appeared in similitude of a dove.
• Often used in philosophical, theological, or formal literary contexts to discuss the nature of resemblance, such as between humans and the divine.
  • The doctrine argues that humans are created in the similitude of God.

Variants and Related Words

• Similar (adj): Having a resemblance in appearance, character, or quantity.
  • They have similar tastes in music.
• Simile (n): A figure of speech explicitly comparing two different things using "like" or "as".
  • "Brave as a lion" is a common simile.
• Assimilate (v): To take in and understand fully; to become similar.
  • It took time to assimilate into the new culture.

Synonyms

• Likeness: The fact or quality of being alike.
• Resemblance: The state of resembling or being alike.
• Similarity: The state or fact of being similar.
• Analogy: A comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.

Antonyms

• Difference: A point or way in which people or things are dissimilar.
• Dissimilarity: Lack of resemblance; unlikeness.
• Contrast: The state of being strikingly different from something else.

Noun

1. a duplicate copy
2. similarity in appearance or character or nature between persons or things
   • man created God in his own likeness