Animal

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈanəml/

Definitions

1. A living organism that feeds on organic matter, typically having specialized sense organs and nervous system, and able to respond rapidly to stimuli. Examples include mammals, birds, and fish.

2. A member of the kingdom Animalia, which comprises multicellular, eukaryotic organisms.

3. A person with certain characteristics, often used in a figurative sense, such as in "a ruthless animal" to describe a person exhibiting intense, primal behavior.

Usage Examples

"The zoo is home to many species of animals, from lions to elephants."

"Humans are considered part of the animal kingdom due to their biological classification."

"He behaved like an animal, acting impulsively without any regard for others."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "animalis," meaning "living being, creature, or animal," which in turn comes from "anima," meaning "breath" or "soul." The term "animal" has been used to describe living organisms with consciousness and movement since the 14th century.

Synonyms

• Creature
• Beast
• Organism
• Living being
• Life form

Antonyms

• Plant
• Vegetation
• Inanimate object

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of the word "animal" is largely consistent across English dialects, though in some accents (e.g., American English), there may be a slight variation in the stressed syllables, with a softer or more pronounced "a" sound in the first syllable.

Historical Usage

The word "animal" has been used for centuries, with its first known use in the early 14th century to denote any living being, later coming to be associated more specifically with members of the kingdom Animalia. In earlier centuries, it was used more broadly, but over time its focus shifted to distinguish animals from plants and other life forms.

Cultural Nuances

The term "animal" has a wide range of cultural connotations. In some cultures, animals are revered as sacred or symbolic of specific attributes, such as strength, wisdom, or agility. In others, animals are viewed primarily for their utility, be it for food, labor, or companionship. Additionally, the word "animal" can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe behaviors that are perceived as primitive or brutish in humans.

More Information

The term "animal" refers to a vast array of organisms that are typically characterized by their ability to move, reproduce sexually, and their dependence on organic matter for nourishment. In modern biology, animals are categorized in numerous ways, but they are most commonly grouped under the kingdom Animalia, which includes diverse species ranging from microscopic organisms to large mammals. The study of animals, known as zoology, plays a crucial role in understanding ecosystems, biodiversity, and human interaction with wildlife.