imitative
UK: ˈɪmɪtətɪv | US: ˈɪmɪˌteɪtɪv
adj. copying or reproducing the behavior, appearance, or sound of something/someone
adj. (of a word) formed to resemble the sound of what it denotes (e.g., "buzz," "meow")
Derived from Latin imitari (to copy), the root imit- carries the core meaning of replication. The suffix -ative (from Latin -ativus) transforms verbs into adjectives, indicating a tendency or capacity. The word evolved through Middle French imitatif before entering English, retaining its focus on mimicry—whether of actions, appearances, or sounds (as in onomatopoeic words).
Children are highly imitative, often mimicking their parents' speech.
The artist's style was imitative of Renaissance techniques.
"Sizzle" is an imitative word that sounds like frying food.
Parrots are known for their imitative ability to reproduce human speech.
His imitative gestures made the comedy sketch hilarious.