CultureJuly 30, 2026

replicant

REP-li-kunt

Definition

A fictional, bioengineered humanoid being designed to look and act like a human, often used in science fiction to explore themes of identity and humanity.

Etymology

The word is a derivation of the Latin 'replicare', meaning 'to fold back' or 'to repeat', which entered English through the verb 'replicate' and was coined for science fiction use in the 20th century.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe a specific sci-fi role played by Michelle Yeoh in the upcoming 'Blade Runner 2099' series.

'Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle' 20 Years On: How a Stoner Comedy Changed Asian American Cinema

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