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Definition of animalistic

animalistic

/ˌæn.ɪ.məˈlɪs.tɪk/
an · i · mal · is · tic
Adverb:animalistically
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animalistic Lexical Profile

animalistic Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to or characterized by primal instincts, physical appetites, or unrestrained behavior typical of animals rather than rational human thought.

Example

"The novel explores the tension between civilized society and the characters' raw, animalistic impulses for survival."

2

Relating to animalism, either as the religious worship of animals or as the artistic depiction of animals.

Example

"The archaeologist examined the ancient carvings, noting the distinct animalistic motifs that dominated the temple walls."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for animalistic

• Nearby Words

ani
anigozanthos
animal
animalistic
animallike
animate
animated

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century from 'animal' (ultimately from Latin animalis, meaning 'having breath or soul') combined with the suffixes '-ist' and '-ic'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Animalistic. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/animalistic
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