animalness
|an-i-mal-ness|
/ˈænɪməlnəs/
the quality of being animal
Etymology
'animalness' originates from English, specifically the word-formation 'animal' + '-ness', where the Latin root 'anima' meant 'breath; soul'.
'animal' came into Middle English from Old French 'animal' and Latin 'animal'; the productive English suffix '-ness' later formed the abstract noun 'animalness' in Modern English.
Initially, it meant 'the state or quality of being animal', and this meaning has largely remained the same, sometimes extended to emphasize primal, instinctive qualities.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or state of being an animal; animal nature
The novel explores the animalness of its characters when stripped of social norms.
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Noun 2
the set of traits typical of animals (as opposed to plants, machines, or abstract reason), such as instinct and physical vitality
He wanted the design to retain a sense of animalness despite its sleek lines.
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Noun 3
a primal, instinct-driven quality in behavior, art, or experience
The dance embraced animalness, emphasizing grounded movement and raw breath.
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Last updated: 2025/08/12 03:22