Animist: meaning, definitions and examples

🌿

Add to dictionary

animist

[ˈænɪmɪst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

belief system

A person who believes that objects, places, and creatures all possess a distinct spiritual essence.

Synonyms

pagan, shaman, spiritualist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
animist	Refers to someone who believes that spirits inhabit natural objects and phenomena. This term is often used in anthropology and religion studies to describe certain traditional belief systems. Many indigenous tribes embrace animist beliefs, seeing spirits in rivers and trees
spiritualist	Describes someone who believes in the ability to communicate with spirits or the afterlife, often through mediums or other practices. This term is often associated with certain religious movements. She went to a spiritualist to receive messages from her deceased grandmother
shaman	Refers to a person who is regarded as having access to, and influence in, the world of spirits, typically involved in healing, guidance, and rituals. This term is often used in anthropological contexts. The shaman performed a ritual to communicate with the spirits and heal the sick
pagan	Typically describes someone who follows a polytheistic or nature-based religion, often in contrast to the Abrahamic religions. This term can sometimes carry a negative connotation or historical bias. In ancient Rome, many people were pagans who worshipped multiple gods and goddesses

Examples of usage

The animist tribe worships the spirits of the forest and the river.
In animist cultures, nature is viewed as sacred and alive.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

religion

One who believes in or practices animism, the belief that natural objects, natural phenomena, and the universe itself possess souls.

Synonyms

nature worshipper, spiritual believer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
animist	Use when referring to someone who believes that objects, places, and creatures all possess a distinct spiritual essence. Often used in the context of traditional or indigenous spiritual practices. The tribe's animist beliefs shape their rituals and daily life. As an animist, she believes that the river has a guardian spirit.

Word

Description / Examples

animist

Use when referring to someone who believes that objects, places, and creatures all possess a distinct spiritual essence. Often used in the context of traditional or indigenous spiritual practices.

The tribe's animist beliefs shape their rituals and daily life.
As an animist, she believes that the river has a guardian spirit.

Examples of usage

The indigenous population follows animist traditions passed down through generations.
Animists often have rituals to honor the spirits of nature.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'animism' comes from the Latin word 'anima,' meaning 'soul' or 'spirit,' reflecting the belief in spirits in everything.
Animism is one of the oldest belief systems, predating organized religions, found in many indigenous cultures worldwide.
Some of the earliest documented animistic practices can be traced back to prehistoric societies through cave paintings and artifacts.

Cultural Significance

In many Indigenous cultures, animist beliefs shape rituals and practices that honor the spirits of nature and ancestors.
Animism often emphasizes respect for the environment, leading to sustainable practices in agriculture and resource management.
Stories and oral traditions within animist cultures often personify nature, illustrating moral lessons and communal values.

Modern Relevance

Today, animism influences various forms of spirituality, including New Age practices and eco-spiritual movements, encouraging a connection with nature.
Environmental movements often draw on animistic principles to advocate for the protection of nature and recognition of its intrinsic value.
Recent studies in anthropology and sociology explore how animism can foster deeper connections between humans and their natural environments.

Philosophical Insights

Animism challenges the idea of a strict separation between humans and nature, promoting interdependence instead.
It raises questions about consciousness, urging us to consider what it means for something to have a spirit or life.
Many scholars argue that animism offers a framework for understanding the world that promotes empathy and ethical consideration towards all beings.

Art and Literature

Animistic themes appear in literature where nature is portrayed as a living entity, influencing characters and plot developments.
Artworks often depict elements of animism, showcasing spiritual connections between humans and the natural world.
Famous authors like Henry David Thoreau have reflected animist ideas in their writing, expressing a deep connection with the environment.

Translations

Translations of the word "animist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 animista

🇮🇳 आनिमिस्ट

🇩🇪 Animist

🇮🇩 animis

🇺🇦 аніміст

🇵🇱 animista

🇯🇵 アニミスト

🇫🇷 animiste

🇪🇸 animista

🇹🇷 animist

🇰🇷 애니미스트

🇸🇦 أنيميست

🇨🇿 animista

🇸🇰 animista

🇨🇳 泛灵论者

🇸🇮 animist

🇮🇸 animisti

🇰🇿 анимист

🇬🇪 ანიმისტი

🇦🇿 animist

🇲🇽 animista

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,161, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

...
36158 gesticulated
36159 comedienne
36160 idolize
36161 animist
36162 lubber
36163 onomatopoeia
36164 unframed
...