noun
Uncommon
simulator
SIHM-yuu-lay-tuh
Simulator (noun) means a machine or program that recreates a real environment or experience, often used for training. Example: “Astronauts spend hours in a zero-gravity simulator before launch.”
noun
1
A machine or program that recreates a real environment or experience, often used for training.
"Classroom sessions for drivers are under way, with each driver requiring a full day on the simulator before they then test a tram on the £350 million new line."
— , Network News: Driver training on Trafford Park line (2020)
"Astronauts spend hours in a zero-gravity simulator before launch."
"A wave simulator in the tank can re-enact tsunamis and northeasters, and imitate wave conditions from midocean."
— Tina Kelley, A Wet Wind Tunnel So Ships Can Move Faster and Better (2007)
"The airline trains new pilots in a flight simulator before they fly real planes."
"A driving simulator lets learners practise emergency stops without any danger."
2
A video game designed to realistically imitate a real-world activity.
"He spent the whole weekend playing a farming simulator."
"My brother bought a train simulator so he could pretend to be a driver."
"Do you prefer racing games or a realistic flight simulator on your console?"
How to use simulator
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA device or program that imitates a real situation, often for training or entertainment.
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Word forms
- Plural
- simulators
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Astronauts spend hours in a zero-gravity _____ before launch.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for simulator
See all rhymes for simulator →Frequently asked questions
What does “simulator” mean?
The word “simulator” means a machine or program that recreates a real environment or experience, often used for training. In plain terms, a device or program that imitates a real situation, often for training or entertainment.
How do you pronounce “simulator”?
“Simulator” is pronounced SIHM-yuu-lay-tuh (/ˈsɪmjəˌleɪtɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “simulator” in a sentence?
Here is “simulator” used in a sentence: “Astronauts spend hours in a zero-gravity simulator before launch.”
What part of speech is “simulator”?
“Simulator” is a noun.
Is “simulator” a common word?
“Simulator” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “simulator” have?
“Simulator” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a machine or program that recreates a real environment or experience, often used for training.
What is the difference between a simulator and a simulation?
A simulator is the machine, device, or program itself, such as a flight simulator used for pilot training. A simulation is the process or scenario it produces, meaning the simulator is the tool and the simulation is what runs on it.
What is the difference between a simulator and a video game?
A simulator, in its gaming sense, is specifically designed to realistically imitate a real-world activity, such as driving or farming. A general video game may not aim for realism at all, focusing instead on fantasy, arcade action, or abstract mechanics.
What is a simulator used for in training?
A simulator recreates a real environment or experience so people can practice skills, such as flying or operating machinery, without the risks or costs of doing the real thing. This makes it valuable for training pilots, drivers, and medical professionals.
