1. to assume the character or appearance of another person, especially for fraudulent purposes
Usage: formal; often legal context
2. to play the role of a character in a dramatic performance
Usage: theatrical; somewhat archaic

Examples

• The defendant was charged with attempting to personate a police officer.
• It is illegal to personate someone else when voting.
• The actor will personate the famous historical figure in the upcoming play.
• She was accused of personating her sister to gain access to the building.
• The fraud involved personating a bank official over the phone.
• In the drama, he personates a wise old king.