rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryfacsimileExact copy
noun / adjective

facsimile

fak-SIM-uh-lee/fækˈsɪməli/

A faithful copy of an original document or object.

The printed facsimile faithfully reproduces the original botanical drawing's leaf shapes.

An original botanical drawing beside an exact printed reproduction with matching leaf shapes, no text.
Etymology
facLatinto make
+simileLatinlike, resembling

The Latin phrase fac simile literally commands 'make similar.' It became the name for the resulting reproduction, with the English sense requiring an exact copy rather than merely something resembling the original.

In context

Columbia GSAPP99:43
facsimile of Tutankhamen there was this is one of the headlines of the news covering the installation of the facsimile near the original tomb in the Valley of the Kings
2019 Fitch Colloquium: Record/Replay Part 3

More examples

  • Scholars consult a facsimile edition of the poet’s notebook.
  • This facsimile reproduces every crack in the ancient vase.
  • The library provides facsimiles so visitors can examine the pages safely.

Forms

facsimile · facsimiles

Similar words

replica
Usually copies a physical object rather than a document.
reproduction
May differ from the original in size or materials.
copy
Does not necessarily preserve the original’s appearance or details.