C1nounnaturescience
US/ˈmɪm.ɪ.kri/
UK/ˈmɪm.ɪ.kri/
when an animal or plant copies the look or sound of another, often to stay safe
In context
Some harmless flies use mimicry to look like dangerous wasps.
The parrot's mimicry of human speech surprised the visitors.
Biologists describe the butterfly's wing pattern as an example of mimicry.
Words that go with mimicry
noun + preposition
- an example of mimicryThe hoverfly is an example of mimicry.
- mimicry ofThe bird's mimicry of other songs is remarkable.
verb + noun
- use mimicrySome orchids use mimicry to attract insects.
noun + noun
- animal mimicryAnimal mimicry can protect small creatures from predators.
adjective + noun
- protective mimicryProtective mimicry helps the insect avoid being eaten.
verb + preposition
- rely on mimicryThe snake relies on mimicry to scare off enemies.