simulation

What it means

1. countableuncountableSomething that simulates a system or environment in order to predict actual behaviour.

   This exercise is a simulation of actual battle conditions.

   1 more example

   The most reliable simulation predicts that the hurricane will turn north.

2. countableuncountableThe process of simulating.

   Despite extensive simulation in the design phase, the aircraft failed to behave as expected.

3. countableuncountablevideo gamesA video game designed to convey a more or less realistic experience, as of a sport or warfare.

   Some kids in the classroom will be playing simulations after school.

In a sentence

This exercise is a simulation of actual battle conditions.

Where it comes from

1. Latinsimulātiōnem
2. Old Frenchsimulation
3. Middle Frenchsimulation
4. Middle Englishsymulacioun
5. Englishsimulation

First attested in 1340 as Middle English symulacioun, from Middle French simulation, from Old French simulation/simulacion, from Latin simulātiōnem, from simulō (“imitate”). Morphologically simulate + -ion.