animality
|an-i-mal-i-ty|
/ˌænɪˈmælɪti/
the animal, instinctive side of a being
Etymology
'animality' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'animalitas', from Latin 'animal' (ultimately from 'anima'), where 'anima' meant 'breath, life, soul.'
'animalitas' passed into French as 'animalité' and entered Early Modern English as 'animality', becoming the standard modern form.
Initially, it denoted 'animal nature or life' in contrast to the rational or spiritual; over time it also gained connotations of 'brutishness or carnality' when referring to behavior.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or state of being animal; animal nature as distinct from the rational or spiritual part.
Philosophers have long contrasted human reason with animality.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
animal-like behavior or instincts, often implying coarseness, carnality, or a lack of civility.
The novel explores the thin line between civility and animality.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/12 00:39