simulé

Simulé is the past participle of the French verb simuler, which means to imitate, reproduce, or pretend. It is also used as an adjective meaning "simulated" or "feigned." The feminine form is simulée, and the plural forms are simulés (masculine) and simulées (feminine). In pronunciation, the standard form is pronounced approximately as si-mu-le, with the final -é indicating the past participle.

Etymology and usage

Derived from Latin simulare, meaning to feign or imitate, simulé appears in various combinations to describe something produced for the purpose of imitation or testing. As an adjective, it agrees with the noun it modifies: un système simulé, une réaction simulée, des données simulées. As a past participle, it belongs to the verb form simuler and can appear in compound tenses.

Contexts

In science and technology, simulé is common in phrases like données simulées (synthetic data) or modèle simulé (simulated model), referring to results obtained through an emulated or virtual environment. In psychology, criminology, or everyday language, it can describe feigned symptoms or behavior, as in symptômes simulés or comportement simulé. The term is often contrasted with réel (real) or authentic, emphasizing the artificial or preparatory nature of a phenomenon.

Related terms

Simuler (to simulate), simulation (the act or process of simulating), simulacre (a sham or mock imitation), and simulant (one who feigns) are closely related, sharing the same Latin root and common usage in French across academic and practical contexts.