What does "replica" mean?

1. (an exact copy) an exact copy of an object, often made to look just like the original. 2. (a scale model) a copy of something that is much smaller than the real thing.

replica

US //ˈɹɛpɫɪkə// UK //ɹˈɛplɪkɐ// repli·ca

1 an exact copy (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

an exact copy of an object, often made to look just like the original.

a precise reproduction of an original work of art, historical artefact, or mechanical object.

Example

The museum sells a small replica of the ancient statue in the gift shop.

Example

The historical society commissioned a full-scale replica of the 18th-century ship to serve as a floating educational museum for local students.
- original
- prototype
2 a scale model (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

a copy of something that is much smaller than the real thing.

a reproduction of an object made at a different scale, typically smaller than the original.

Example

He has a collection of metal replicas of classic racing cars on his shelf.

Example

The architect presented a detailed replica of the proposed stadium to the city council to illustrate how the structure would fit into the skyline.
- model
- miniature

Origin

Borrowed from Italian replica, derived from Latin replicare (“to fold or bend back; to reply”). Doublet of reply and replicate.