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noun Uncommon

resemblance

rih-ZEHMB-luhns

Resemblance (noun) means a similarity in appearance or qualities between two things or people. Example: “She bears a striking resemblance to her grandmother.”

noun
1
A similarity in appearance or qualities between two things or people.
"She bears a striking resemblance to her grandmother."
"The two paintings show a clear resemblance in style."

How to use resemblance

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHow similar two things or people look or seem.

Common pairings
bear a resemblance striking resemblance close resemblance

Word forms

resemblances plural

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Fill the gap

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She bears a striking _____ to her grandmother.

Etymology

From Old French resemblance, from resembler ("to resemble").

Origin: Old French

Related words

Rhymes for resemblance

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Frequently asked questions

What does “resemblance” mean?

The word “resemblance” means a similarity in appearance or qualities between two things or people. In plain terms, how similar two things or people look or seem.

How do you pronounce “resemblance”?

“Resemblance” is pronounced rih-ZEHMB-luhns (/ɹəˈzɛmbləns/ in IPA).

How do you use “resemblance” in a sentence?

Here is “resemblance” used in a sentence: “She bears a striking resemblance to her grandmother.”

What is another word for “resemblance”?

Words with a similar meaning to “resemblance” include likeness.

What part of speech is “resemblance”?

“Resemblance” is a noun.

Where does the word “resemblance” come from?

The word “resemblance” comes from Old French. From Old French resemblance, from resembler ("to resemble").

Is “resemblance” a common word?

“Resemblance” is an uncommon word in modern English.

What is the difference between resemblance and similarity?

Resemblance specifically refers to a likeness in appearance or qualities between two things or people, often used when comparing how things look. Similarity is a broader term that can apply to appearance, behaviour, ideas, or any shared characteristic, not just visual likeness.

Is resemblance only about physical appearance?

No, resemblance can refer to similarity in qualities as well as appearance, so it can describe things like shared personality traits or similar structures, not just how something looks. However, it is most commonly used in everyday speech to describe visual or family likeness.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial