The Word - IMITATOR

Aristotle uses the word IMITATOR as a way to describe poets, artists, actors, and other creative thinkers of his time. The OED defines IMITATOR as "One who imitates, copies, or follows another; one who produces an imitation of anything." Additionally, the OED defines the verb form of imitate as "[t]o do or try to do after the manner of; to follow the example of; to copy in action" and furthermore, "[s]ometimes with implication of incongruity or of specific purpose: To mimic, counterfeit." Similar to the definition of the noun, the transitive verb contains the negative connotation of counterfeiting. While keeping ourselves reminded of the famous proverb, "imitation is the sincerest form of flattery", it is important to note that Aristotle also taps into the more negative connotations when speaking of these IMITATORS, for they are not creating a pure replication of nature, merely imitations.