Skip to main content
epigon

epigon

9.9
A person who copies a famous artist's work and is not as good
  • noun
  • /ˈɛpɪˌɡɒn/
  • Offensive
translation icon : epígono
  • Many critics dismissed the composer as an epigon lacking the innovation of his mentor.

Examples

  • He feared being labeled an epigon rather than an original thinker.

  • Many critics consider her an epigon of Picasso.

  • In art history, some painters are overshadowed by the masters they epigonize.

  • He is an epigon of modern art.

  • Many critics dismissed the composer as an epigon lacking the innovation of his mentor.

  • He feared being labeled an epigon rather than an original thinker.

  • Many critics consider her an epigon of Picasso.

Synonyms

imitator
vsepigon
9 3.4

A person who copies another person's words, actions, or style

is specific to copying distinguished artistic work rather than general copying
emulator
vsepigon
5 6.8

A person who tries to copy and match someone's words or actions

copies rather than trying to equal or surpass the person
epigone
vsepigon
  • Offensive
1 9.9

A person who copies a famous artist's style but is not as good

is the same in meaning but spelled with a final e
cloner
vsepigon
1 5.5

A person who copies another person's work or style without adding new ideas

focuses on imitating distinguished creators rather than copying anyone

How Original

innovator
38 4.3
epigon
  • Offensive
9.9
to copycat
  • Informal
1 3.7
follower
295 1.6

Surface Forms

epigon singular
epigons plural

Etymology

Epigon comes from Greek parts epi- 'after' and -gonos 'born', and it once meant someone 'born after' a great artist. So an epigon is a later follower who mainly copies a famous writer, painter, or musician and is often seen as less original.