# replicate

/ˈɹɛpɫəˌkeɪt/ (US) · /ɹˈɛplɪkˌeɪt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/replicate
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to copy or reproduce

verb · CEFR B2

to make an exact copy of something.

For teachers: to produce a precise copy or reproduction of an object, process, or piece of data.

- The researchers were able to replicate the virus in a controlled lab environment.
- The software was designed to replicate the user's desktop settings across multiple devices automatically to ensure a seamless workflow.

Usage: Often used in technical or digital contexts rather than for simple artistic copying.

### 2. to repeat an experiment

verb · CEFR C1 · Academic

to do a scientific test again to see if you get the same answer.

For teachers: to repeat a scientific experiment or trial under the same conditions to verify previous findings.

- Other scientists tried to replicate the study, but they got different results.
- Failure to replicate the original findings led the journal to retract the paper, highlighting the importance of rigorous methodology in clinical trials.

Usage: Usually takes a study, experiment, or finding as its direct object.

### 3. an exact copy

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

an exact copy of something, especially one used in a scientific test.

For teachers: a precise copy or reproduction; in statistics, one of several identical experiments performed simultaneously.

- The team ran three replicates of the test to make sure the data was accurate.
- Each replicate was treated with a different concentration of the enzyme to determine the optimal reaction rate for the final synthesis.

### 4. folded back

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical

folded over or back on itself.

For teachers: folded back or doubled upon itself.

- The botanist noticed the replicate leaves on the rare plant species.
- The specimen was identified by its replicate margins, a characteristic feature that distinguishes it from similar species in the region.

Teaching tip: This sense is highly specialised and restricted to botany or zoology; general learners will likely never encounter it.

## Examples

- Scientists replicate the test to check the data.
- The lab team replicated the study using a larger group of volunteers.
- Independent researchers attempted to replicate the findings, but subtle differences in methodology made direct comparison difficult.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.