simulacrum

/ˌsɪmjəˈleɪkrəm/
noun
  1. A slight, unreal, or superficial likeness or representation of something.
    • The painting was only a simulacrum of the original masterpiece, missing its soul.
    • His apology felt like a simulacrum of genuine regret, empty and rehearsed.
    • In the virtual world, players interact with a simulacrum of a real city.
  2. An image or representation of a person or thing, especially in a statue or painting.
    • The wax museum featured a simulacrum of the president that was eerily lifelike.
    • The ancient temple contained a simulacrum of the goddess carved from marble.
    • Photographers captured a simulacrum of the celebrity that looked almost real.
Antonyms