replica
REHP-lih-kuh
Replica (noun) means an exact copy of something, often made for display or study rather than actual use. Example: “The museum built a full-size replica of the ship for visitors to walk through.”
noun
1
An exact copy of something, often made for display or study rather than actual use.
"The museum built a full-size replica of the ship for visitors to walk through."
"He keeps a replica of the trophy on his desk since the original stays locked away."
2
A smaller-scale copy of the original.
"She collects replica model cars of famous racing vehicles."
How to use replica
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA copy built to look just like the real thing.
Common pairings
exact replica
scale replica
replica of the original
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Word forms
- Plural
- replicas, repliche
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The museum built a full-size _____ of the ship for visitors to walk through.
Etymology
From Italian replica, tracing back to Latin replicare ("to fold back" or "to repeat") — a relative of "reply" and "replicate."
Related words
Rhymes for replica
See all rhymes for replica →Frequently asked questions
What does “replica” mean?
The word “replica” means an exact copy of something, often made for display or study rather than actual use. In plain terms, a copy built to look just like the real thing.
How do you pronounce “replica”?
“Replica” is pronounced REHP-lih-kuh (/ˈɹɛplɪkə/ in IPA).
How do you use “replica” in a sentence?
Here is “replica” used in a sentence: “The museum built a full-size replica of the ship for visitors to walk through.”
What part of speech is “replica”?
“Replica” is a noun.
Where does the word “replica” come from?
The word “replica” comes from Latin. From Italian replica, tracing back to Latin replicare ("to fold back" or "to repeat") — a relative of "reply" and "replicate.".
Is “replica” a common word?
“Replica” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “replica” have?
“Replica” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an exact copy of something, often made for display or study rather than actual use.
What is the difference between a replica and a copy?
A replica is typically an exact copy of something, often built for display or study rather than everyday use, and it may be full-size or a smaller-scale version. A copy is a more general term that can refer to any duplicate, including reproductions that are not especially precise or physical, such as a copy of a document.
What is the difference between a replica and a reproduction?
A replica usually aims for an exact match to the original, sometimes at a smaller scale, and is often associated with models or collectible items. A reproduction can be less precise and is a broader term covering any recreated version of an original work, such as a painting or piece of furniture.
Is a replica always smaller than the original?
No, a replica is not always smaller than the original; it can be a full-size exact copy or a smaller-scale version, depending on context. Scale-model replicas, such as miniature cars or buildings, are common, but full-size replicas of items like trophies or artefacts also exist.
