D defs.my
Entry 3 senses Webster, 1913

Imitate

/ĭm'-ət-ātˌ/ · Im·i·tate · IPA /ˈɪmɪteɪt/
01 v. t. To follow as a pattern, model, or example; to copy or strive to copy, in acts, manners etc.
imp. & p. p. Imitated; p. pr. & vb. n. Imitating
  1. 1.
    To follow as a pattern, model, or example; to copy or strive to copy, in acts, manners etc.
    “Despise wealth and imitate a dog.” — Cowlay.
  2. 2.
    To produce a semblance or likeness of, in form, character, color, qualities, conduct, manners, and the like; to counterfeit; to copy.
    “A place picked out by choice of best alive The Nature's work by art can imitate.” Spenser.
    “This hand appeared a shining sword to weild, And that sustained an imitated shield.” Dryden.
  3. 3.
    To resemble (another species of animal, or a plant, or inanimate object) in form, color, ornamentation, or instinctive habits, so as to derive an advantage thereby; sa, when a harmless snake imitates a venomous one in color and manner, or when an odorless insect imitates, in color, one having secretion offensive to birds.(Biol.)