simulate

To simulate something means to make it look or feel like the real thing, but not actually be the real thing. You can think of it as pretending or imitating.

When people talk about simulating, they often mean using technology to create a fake version of something real. For example, video games might simulate driving a car or flying an airplane, so you get the experience without having to actually do it in real life. Some computer programs also simulate weather patterns or economic systems, so scientists can study and understand how they work. Even schools might use simulation exercises to teach students skills like surgery or emergency response, where mistakes won't have serious consequences.