Facsimile Meaning: Definition, Examples & Usage

Meaning 1：exact copy (facsimile)

facsimile 🔊

/fækˈsɪməli/

An exact copy of something, especially a document or picture, that looks just like the original.

exact copy 🔊

➕

/ɪɡˈzækt ˈkɒpi/

A facsimile is an exact reproduction of a document, book, painting, or other object, often made to preserve or share the original without risking damage.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：advanced

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'fac simile' meaning 'make similar': 'fac' (make) + 'simile' (similar).

💡 Mnemonic

FACSIMILE: FACt SIMILar — think of making an exact, similar copy.

📖 Example

The library displayed a facsimile of the ancient manuscript next to the glass case holding the original, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate details safely. 🔊 Visitors could safely admire the intricate details of the ancient manuscript thanks to the library's facsimile exhibited beside the original.

🔗 Collocations

facsimile edition – A book published as an exact reproduction of an original, often used for rare documents.

facsimile copy – A duplicate that is identical in every detail to the source.

facsimile transmission – The process of sending scanned images of documents via a fax machine.

🔄 Synonyms

replica (n.) – An exact copy or model of something, especially one made on a smaller scale.

duplicate (n.) – One of two or more identical things; a copy that is exactly like the original.

clone (n.) – An exact copy of a living organism or object, produced artificially.

🚫 Antonyms

original (n.) – The first or earliest version of something, from which copies are made.

prototype (n.) – A first or preliminary model of something, from which later forms are developed.

🌱 Derivatives

fax (n.) – Short for facsimile, a machine that sends and receives copies of documents electronically.

📖 Cultural Story

Originating in the late 16th century, 'facsimile' literally meant 'make similar'. In modern culture, it is widely known through 'fax' (short for facsimile) machines, which transmit exact copies of documents over telephone lines.