Identical

Definition

Being the exact same in all aspects; not different in any noticeable way.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /aɪˈdɛntɪkəl/
• Respelling: eye-DEN-ti-kuhl (with "eye" as in "eye," "DEN" as in "den," "ti" as in "tip," and "kuhl" as in "cool")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /aɪˈdɛntɪkəl/
• Respelling: eye-DEN-ti-kuhl (with "eye" as in "eye," "DEN" as in "den," "ti" as in "tip," and "kuhl" as in "cool")

In both dialects, "identical" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "DEN." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "eye-DEN-ti-kuhl."

Etymology

The term "identical" stems from the late Latin "identicus," from Latin "idem," meaning "the same."

Derivatives

• Identically (adverb)
• Identicalness (noun)
• Non-identical (adjective)
• Identic (adjective)
• Identicity (noun)

Synonyms

• Same
• Indistinguishable
• Equal

Antonyms

• Different
• Distinct
• Divergent

Usage

The term "identical" is used to describe objects, people, or phenomena that are exactly the same in every detail. It is commonly used in contexts such as twins, objects produced by the same process, or any two entities that are indistinguishable from each other.

Related Terms

• Duplicate
• Twin
• Clone
• Carbon copy
• Replicate

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Exactly Alike: Being precisely the same in every respect.
  • Example: The two paintings are identical; you cannot tell them apart.

• Twins: Referring to twins that are genetically the same, often called monozygotic twins.
  • Example: The identical twins had the same hair color and facial features.

• Corresponding Exactly: Matching in every detail, often used in technical or scientific contexts.
  • Example: The DNA samples were found to be identical.

Note: The term "identical" underscores the importance of similarity, whether in physical appearance, nature, or characteristics. It is frequently used in contexts where precision, similarity, or unambiguity is essential.