ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sim

n. countable
B1 Intermediate US //ˈsɪm// sim Informal Vulgar

n. a computer program that copies a real-life activity, like flying a plane or living a virtual life. People often use this word when talking about video games.

n. a computer simulation of a real-world process or environment. Informal in register; frequently used as a clipping of 'simulation' in gaming and professional training contexts.


SIMPLE

I spent all weekend playing a flight sim.

CONTEXTUAL

The pilot practiced emergency landings in a high-tech flight sim before flying the actual aircraft.

COMPLEX

While the graphics in the racing sim are impressive, the physics engine fails to accurately replicate the sensation of tire traction on a wet track.

Etymology 1

From Middle English Sym, diminutive of Simeon and Simon.

Etymology 2

Borrowed from Hokkien 沈 (Sím) or Teochew 沈 (sim2).

Etymology 3

Borrowed from Korean 심(沈) (Sim).

Etymology 4

From the title of The Sims, which most likely came from clipping of simulation, as The Sims, SimCity, and related franchises are simulation games; compare sim (“simulator, simulation”).

Usage

Commonly used as a modifier in compound nouns like 'flight sim' or 'racing sim'.

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