replicate
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to make an exact copy of something.
v.to produce a precise copy or reproduction of an object, process, or piece of data.
Simple“The researchers were able to replicate the virus in a controlled lab environment.”
In context“The software was designed to replicate the user's desktop settings across multiple devices automatically to ensure a seamless workflow.”
UsageOften used in technical or digital contexts rather than for simple artistic copying.
- 02 C1 Advanced
v.to do a scientific test again to see if you get the same answer.
v.to repeat a scientific experiment or trial under the same conditions to verify previous findings.
Simple“Other scientists tried to replicate the study, but they got different results.”
In context“Failure to replicate the original findings led the journal to retract the paper, highlighting the importance of rigorous methodology in clinical trials.”
UsageUsually takes a study, experiment, or finding as its direct object.
- 03 C1 Advanced
n.an exact copy of something, especially one used in a scientific test.
n.a precise copy or reproduction; in statistics, one of several identical experiments performed simultaneously.
Simple“The team ran three replicates of the test to make sure the data was accurate.”
In context“Each replicate was treated with a different concentration of the enzyme to determine the optimal reaction rate for the final synthesis.”
- 04 C2 Proficiency
adj.folded over or back on itself.
adj.folded back or doubled upon itself.
Simple“The botanist noticed the replicate leaves on the rare plant species.”
In context“The specimen was identified by its replicate margins, a characteristic feature that distinguishes it from similar species in the region.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is highly specialised and restricted to botany or zoology; general learners will likely never encounter it.
Usage finding replicate · replicate experiment · replicate finding
“The increase has been replicated around the world, with booksellers in the US, Australia and Europe also reporting unusual orders.”
“Can he replicate the 15 goals and four assists that made him the third-highest-scoring FPL midfielder in 25-26?”
From Latin replicātus, past participle of replicāre (“to fold or bend back; reply”), from re (“back”) + plicāre (“to fold”); see ply. Doublet of reply and replica.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.