Aped: meaning, definitions and examples

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aped

 

[ eɪp ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

mimicking actions

To ape means to imitate the actions, behaviors, or mannerisms of someone else, often in a mocking or derisive manner. This word typically implies a lack of originality, as the person who is aping is simply copying another's behavior rather than creating something their own. It can also denote a sense of exaggeration in the imitation. Aping can happen in various contexts, including behavior, fashion, and even speech.

Synonyms

copy, imitate, mimic, mock, parody

Examples of usage

  • The comedian aped the famous actor's walk.
  • Children often ape their parents without realizing it.
  • He was always aping the latest trends.
  • The mockingbird can ape the sounds of other birds.
Context #2 | Noun

ape behavior

The term 'aped' can also refer to the act of behaving or resembling an ape, demonstrating the characteristics associated with apes, such as physical movements or facial expressions. In this context, it can suggest being clumsy or lacking grace in one’s actions. This usage is less common but still recognized, often used to describe someone acting in a foolish or uncivilized manner.

Synonyms

ape-like, clumsy, gorilla-like

Examples of usage

  • He moved like an aped creature.
  • The child was so excited he started making aped gestures.
  • They were playing a game where they ran around aped like monkeys.

Translations

Translations of the word "aped" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aped

🇮🇳 काबू

🇩🇪 abgedeckt

🇮🇩 terbungkus

🇺🇦 покритий

🇵🇱 przykryty

🇯🇵 覆われた

🇫🇷 caché

🇪🇸 cubierto

🇹🇷 örtülü

🇰🇷 덮인

🇸🇦 مغطى

🇨🇿 pokrýtý

🇸🇰 zakrytý

🇨🇳 覆盖的

🇸🇮 pokrit

🇮🇸 hulið

🇰🇿 жабық

🇬🇪 დაფარული

🇦🇿 örtülü

🇲🇽 cubierto

Etymology

The word 'ape' originates from the Middle English term 'ape,' which itself comes from the Old English 'apa' (meaning 'ape' or 'monkey'). The exact origin is uncertain, but it is likely linked to Proto-Germanic and even earlier Proto-Indo-European roots. The concept of mimicking behaviors derived from the observable actions of apes, which are known for their capacity to imitate both each other and humans. Thus, 'to ape' evolved in the English language as a verb meaning to imitate or mock. Its usage has remained prevalent in both literary and colloquial contexts, illustrating the human tendency to replicate behaviors. Over time, 'ape' has become entrenched in the lexicon, symbolizing not just the act of imitation but also a broader cultural commentary on authenticity and originality. The association with apes serves as a reminder of both our evolutionary history and the social dynamics of human behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,917, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.