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Webster 1913 Edition

Imitate

Im′i-tate

,
Verb.
T.
[
imp. & p. p.
Imitated
;
p. pr. & vb. n.
Imitating
.]
[L.
imitatus
, p. p. of
imitari
to imitate; of unknown origin. Cf.
Image
.]
1.
To follow as a pattern, model, or example; to copy or strive to copy, in acts, manners etc.
Despise wealth and
imitate
a dog.
Cowlay.
2.
To produce a semblance or likeness of, in form, character, color, qualities, conduct, manners, and the like; to counterfeit; to copy.
A place picked out by choice of best alive
The Nature’s work by art can
imitate
.
Spenser.
This hand appeared a shining sword to weild,
And that sustained an
imitated
shield.
Dryden.
3.
(Biol.)
To resemble (another species of animal, or a plant, or inanimate object) in form, color, ornamentation, or instinctive habits, so as to derive an advantage thereby; sa, when a harmless snake imitates a venomous one in color and manner, or when an odorless insect imitates, in color, one having secretion offensive to birds.

Webster 1828 Edition

Imitate

IMI'TATE

,
Verb.
T.
[L. imitor; allied perhaps to Gr. similar, equal.]
1.
To follow in manners; to copy in form, color or quality. We imitate another in dress or manners; we imitate a statue, a painting, a sound, an action, when we make or do that which resembles it. We should seek the best models to imitate, and in morals and piety, it is our duty to imitate the example of our Savior. But as we cannot always make an exact similitude of the original,hence,
2.
To attempt or endeavor to copy or resemble; as, to imitate the colors of the rainbow, or any of the beauties of nature. Cicero appears to have imitated the Greek orators.
3.
To counterfeit.
This hand appear'd a shining sword to wield,
And that sustain'd an imitated shield.
4.
To pursue the course of a composition, so as to use like images and examples.

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