Animals
/ˈænɪməlz/
nounBeginnerVery CommonMedical
Idiom
Meaning
Questions
Definitions
1
A living creature that feeds on organic matter, typically having specialized sense organs and nervous system and able to respond rapidly to stimuli.
/ˈænɪməlz/
nounneutralBeginner
Medical
Living organisms that are not plants
The animals in the rainforest are incredibly diverse.
💡 Simply: A living thing that is not a plant.
More Examples
2
She volunteers at an animal shelter.
How It's Used
Biology
"Mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish are all animals."
Everyday conversation
"I love watching animals at the zoo."
Idioms & expressions
animal kingdom
The entire world of animals.
"The animal kingdom is full of fascinating creatures."
From Old French animal, from Latin animalis, from anima 'breath, soul, life'.
The word 'animal' has been used in a similar sense throughout history, often with religious or philosophical connotations.
Memory tip
Think 'animate' - animals are living beings.
Practice
Base: animal
animulsanemals
Usage
70%Spoken
30%Written