What is the term for vocal imitation that is evoked by an antecedent verbal stimulus?

The term for vocal imitation that is evoked by an antecedent verbal stimulus is "echoic." In behavioral terms, echoics are a type of verbal behavior where a speaker repeats what is heard, closely mimicking the verbal antecedent. This is important in teaching language and communication skills, as it reinforces the connection between auditory stimuli and vocal responses.

Echoics play a significant role in language development and are often used in teaching children how to speak by reinforcing their ability to imitate sounds or words that they hear. The emphasis on the antecedent verbal stimulus is crucial because it indicates that the imitation is prompted or controlled by hearing a specific verbal cue. This distinguishing feature differentiates echoics from other types of verbal relations or behaviors.