simulate
UK[ˈsɪm.jə.leɪt]US[ˈsɪm.jə.leɪt]
v
to create a particular set of conditions that exist in real life using computers, models, etc., usually for study or training purposes.
v
to pretend to have or feel a particular emotion.
Morpheme Breakdown
simul
ate
simul
like, similar
ate
verb suffix
Etymology
the word simulate originates from the latin verb 'simulare', meaning to make like, imitate, or feign. this verb itself is derived from the latin adjective 'similis', meaning like or similar. the core semantic thread from its ancient root to the modern english term is the concept of creating a likeness or imitation. in contemporary usage, this logic extends from the basic act of pretending or feigning to the sophisticated technical process of creating a computer model that imitates the conditions of a real system or situation.
Analysis
Structure: simul (like, similar) + ate (verb suffix)
simul (from latin 'similis', meaning like, similar, same); ate (a verb-forming suffix from latin '-atus', indicating an action or process).
Examples
the flight simulator is used to simulate emergency conditions for pilots.
he simulated interest in the conversation, though his mind was elsewhere.
this software can simulate the effects of climate change over the next century.