facsimile
UK[fækˈsɪm.ə.li]US[fækˈsɪm.ə.li]
n
an exact copy, especially of a document or a piece of art.
n
(dated) a method of transmitting an image or document via electronic signals and reproducing it elsewhere.
Morpheme Breakdown
fac
simile
fac
make
simile
similar
Etymology
the word 'facsimile' is a modern latin construction, entering english in the 17th century. it is a direct imperative command formed from the latin phrase 'fac simile', meaning 'make similar'. this literal instruction to create a likeness was originally used in scholarly contexts for the reproduction of manuscripts. over time, it evolved into a noun denoting any exact copy, and its meaning was later extended to the technology (fax) that electronically transmits and reproduces such copies, perfectly embodying its original imperative logic.
Analysis
Structure: fac (make) + simile (similar)
fac is from latin 'facere', meaning 'to make, to do'. simile is from latin 'similis', meaning 'like, similar'.
Examples
the library displayed a facsimile of the original declaration of independence.
before digital scanning, sending a facsimile was the fastest way to share a document.
the artist created a remarkable facsimile of the famous painting.