English Reference
Noun

impersonator

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˌɪmˈpɝsəneɪtɝ/ UK /ɪmpˈɜːsənˌeɪtɐ/ im·per·son·ator UK spelling impersonators

n.a person who copies the way someone else looks, speaks, or behaves. You often see them at parties or on TV trying to look exactly like a famous person.

n.a person who imitates the appearance, voice, or mannerisms of another individual. Often used in the context of entertainment or social mimicry.


SIMPLE

The impersonator did a great job of copying the president's voice.

CONTEXTUAL

The comedian is famous for his ability to transform into a perfect impersonator of various Hollywood actors.

COMPLEX

While some impersonators rely on physical makeup to achieve their goal, others master the subtle vocal inflections and gait of their subjects to create a truly convincing performance.

At that time, Wiles said her phone had been hacked after an impersonator, or impersonators, used her contacts file to message other top US officials.

BBC News· 17 Aug 2026

Part-time actor and Mamdani impersonator Amadeo Fusca won the contest and took home a prize of $100.

Al Jazeera· 31 Aug 2026

From impersonate + -or.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated