emulator
emulator Lexical Profile
emulator Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A hardware device or software program that enables one computer system to replicate the functions and internal architecture of another system, allowing it to run software or use peripherals designed for the original system.
"The digital archivist used an open-source emulator to run classic video games and legacy software on a modern laptop."
A person or entity that imitates, models itself after, or strives to equal or surpass another in achievement or quality.
"The young composer began his career as a devoted emulator of Mozart before developing his own distinctive musical voice."
Word Nuance & Usage
In computing, an 'emulator' differs from a 'simulator': an emulator replicates the exact internal architecture and hardware behavior of a target system so original software can run unmodified, whereas a simulator models only the outward behavior or environment of a system for analysis or training.
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin 'aemulator' ('a rival or zealous imitator'), an agent noun from 'aemulari' ('to strive to equal or excel'). The computing sense emerged in the 1960s when IBM engineers introduced microcode that allowed newer mainframe computers to run software written for older hardware models.