Meaning & Definition of word "Animal"
to
Animal
/ˈæn.ɪ.məl/
noun:
- 1. A living organism that is not a plant and that is able to move and respond to stimuli. Animals typically have specialized senses and nervous systems.
- Example: The cheetah is the fastest land animal.
- 2. A member of the kingdom Animalia, which includes all mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates.
- Example: The zoo has a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and penguins.
- 3. A non-human creature; often refers to domesticated species or species raised for agricultural purposes.
- Example: Farmers often raise animals such as cows and chickens for food.
- 4. A human being, often used in a derogatory or pejorative sense.
- Example: He acted like an animal during the argument, lacking any self-control.
Etymology
Late Middle English: from Latin animalis 'having breath', from anima 'breath, spirit'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
animal instincts:
The inherent instincts or behaviors of animals, often used to describe primal human emotions or actions.
sick as a dog:
Very ill or unwell, often with reference to the condition of animals.
animal kingdom:
The classification of all animals, inclusive of various categories and species.
Related Words
zoology:
The scientific study of animals and their behavior, physiology, classification, and distribution.
wildlife:
Animals that live or grow in the natural environment, not domesticated.
fauna:
The animals of a particular region, habitat, or geological period.
Slang Meanings of animal
Meaning: An awesome person, often used in a complimentary sense.
Example Sentence: That guy is an animal on the basketball court!
Meaning: Someone who behaves aggressively or violently.
Example Sentence: He went full animal at the party last night.