identical
/aɪˈdɛntɪkəl/
ADJECTIVE
1. Exactly alike in every characteristic
Having precisely the same characteristics, qualities, appearance, or properties as another person or thing, making the two indistinguishable in relevant respects.
1.1. Objects, appearance, and physical characteristics
Describes two or more objects, people, or things that have exactly the same appearance, features, or physical characteristics.
Synonyms
- alike
- indistinguishable
- the same
- selfsame
- look-alike
- matching
- twin
- duplicate
- carbon-copy
- spitting image
Antonyms
Examples
- The two cars were painted in the identical shade of blue, making them difficult to distinguish.
- The twins were so alike that they appeared almost identical to everyone who met them.
- The documents were identical, confirming the accuracy of the information provided.
Related Words
- resemblance
- likeness
- similarity
- replica
- counterpart
- clone
1.2. Genetically identical twins
Describes twins who originate from the same fertilized egg and share the same genetic code.
Synonyms
- monozygotic
- identic
Antonyms
- fraternal
- dizygotic
- nonidentical
Examples
- The identical twins shared remarkably similar physical features and genetic characteristics.
Related Words
- genetics
- heredity
- DNA
- twinship
- monozygotic twins
ADJECTIVE
2. Exactly the same in identity or essence
Being one and the same person, thing, or entity rather than merely resembling or corresponding to another.
2.1. Identity and sameness
Used when two names, descriptions, references, or apparent entities actually refer to the very same person or thing.
Synonyms
- selfsame
- one and the same
- very same
- same
- identic
Antonyms
Examples
- The two descriptions referred to the identical individual.
- The name appearing in both records belonged to the identical person.
Related Words
ADJECTIVE
3. Exactly equivalent in value or meaning
Having precisely the same value, meaning, effect, or significance as something else.
3.1. Equal value and significance
Describes things that have the same value, importance, meaning, or effect, even when they may differ in form or appearance.
Synonyms
- equivalent
- equal
- tantamount
- coequal
- coordinate
- corresponding
- synonymous
Antonyms
Examples
- The experiment produced identical results when conducted under the same conditions.
- The two proposals had identical objectives despite using different approaches.
Related Words
- equivalence
- parity
- correspondence
- proportionality
- equality
3.2. Approximate similarity and correspondence
Describes things that closely resemble or correspond to each other in important characteristics, although they may not be precisely the same.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- dissimilar
- disparate
- unlike
- diverse
- distinct
Examples
- The two approaches produced nearly identical outcomes.
- Their experiences were identical in many important respects.
Related Words
- resemblance
- comparison
- correlation
- compatibility
- conformity
NOUN
4. Something having exactly the same properties
A person or thing that possesses exactly the same properties, characteristics, or qualities as another.
4.1. Equivalent objects or counterparts
Refers to a thing that is exactly the same as another in its relevant characteristics, function, or properties.
Synonyms
- duplicate
- double
- twin
- counterpart
- replica
- equivalent
Examples
- The two devices were identical in every technical specification.
- Researchers found an identical of the original specimen.
Related Words
- copy
- clone
- replication
- likeness
- match
- carbon copy
4.2. An identical twin
Refers to one of two twins who share the same genetic origin and are genetically identical.
Synonyms
- identic
- monozygotic twin
Antonyms
- fraternal twin
- dizygotic twin
Examples
- One of the identicals was studying medicine while the other was pursuing engineering.
Related Words
- twin
- sibling
- genetics
- DNA
- heredity