simulation

noun

sim·​u·​la·​tion ˌsim-yə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: the act or process of simulating

2

: a sham object : counterfeit

3

a

: the imitative representation of the functioning of one system or process by means of the functioning of another

a computer simulation of an industrial process

b

: examination of a problem often not subject to direct experimentation by means of a simulating device

Examples of simulation in a Sentence

a computer simulation of spaceflight

a simulation of the planet's surface

They use computer simulation to predict weather conditions.

Recent Examples on the Web

Of course, the simulation itself can’t be brought to the digital marketing world (not yet, at least), but the excitement of getting consumers to engage, personalize and create dream cars with a few screen taps is no longer a distant fantasy. —Michael Della Penna, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025

Next up is Blender, an open-source 3D content creation suite for modeling, animation, simulation, and compositing. —PCMAG, 19 Jan. 2025

And Nova Southeastern University in Davie is using simulations, including with robots, holograms, and virtual and augmented reality to help teach students how to do surgery, assist in delivering babies and respond to medical emergencies. —Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 17 Jan. 2025

Current research suggests there may be some cognitive activities, like games and simulations, that could help slow cognitive decline in the elderly, and research is ongoing. —Christopher M. Worsham, TIME, 14 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English simulacioun "insincerity, pretense, deceit," borrowed from Anglo-French simulacion, borrowed from Latin simulātiōn-, simulātiō "act of copying, putting on an appearance, pretense," from simulāre, similāre "to pretend, assume the appearance of by one's conduct, produce a fraudulent imitation of, imitate" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at simulate

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

simulation

noun

sim·​u·​la·​tion ˌsim-yə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: the act or process of simulating

2

: an object that is not genuine

3

: the imitation by one system or process of the way in which another system or process works

a computer simulation of spaceflight

Legal Definition

simulation

noun

sim·​u·​la·​tion ˌsim-yə-ˈlā-shən 

1

in the civil law of Louisiana

2

: the act of simulating

3

: a contract that by mutual agreement does not express the true intent of the parties see also counterletter compare disguised donation at donation

Note: Although a simulation does not have effect as between the parties, its lack of effect may not be asserted against third parties, such as creditors or bona fide purchasers, to avoid liability.