animal
|an-i-mal|
A1
/ˈænɪməl/
living organism
Etymology
Etymology Information
'animal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'animalis', where 'anima' meant 'breath' or 'soul'.
Historical Evolution
'animalis' transformed into the Old French word 'animal', and eventually became the modern English word 'animal'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a living being with breath or soul', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a living organism that feeds on organic matter'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a living organism that feeds on organic matter, typically having specialized sense organs and nervous system and able to respond rapidly to stimuli.
The zoo has a wide variety of animals.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35