animalic
|an - i - mal - ic|
/ˌænɪˈmælɪk/
animal-like, primal quality
Etymology
'animalic' originates from English, formed from 'animal' (ultimately from Latin 'animal,' from 'anima' meaning 'breath, soul') plus the adjectival suffix '-ic'.
'animalic' changed from Middle English/Old French word 'animal' (from Latin 'animal') with the addition of the suffix '-ic' and eventually became the modern English word 'animalic'.
Initially, it meant 'of or relating to animals,' but over time it evolved to include the specialized perfumery sense of 'having musky, animal-like scent qualities.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or characteristic of animals; animal-like in nature or quality.
The painting captures an animalic vitality that feels raw and alive.
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Adjective 2
in perfumery, having a scent quality reminiscent of animals (e.g., musky, leathery, civet-like), often sensual or slightly feral.
The fragrance dries down to an animalic base rich in musk and castoreum.
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Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/11 21:52