Anthropomorphism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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anthropomorphism
[หanฮธrษpษหmษหrหfษชzษm ]
Definitions
literature
The attribution of human characteristics or behavior to a god, animal, or object.
Synonyms
anthropomorphization, humanization, personification.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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anthropomorphism |
Used mainly in academic or scientific contexts to describe the attribution of human traits to animals, gods, or objects.
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personification |
Commonly used in literary and artistic contexts to describe giving human traits, emotions, or intentions to abstract concepts, animals, or objects.
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humanization |
Used in both academic and general contexts to describe making something more human-like. It can relate to both physical and behavioral traits.
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anthropomorphization |
A more technical term found in academic papers or professional discussions when talking about the process of attributing human characteristics to non-human entities.
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Examples of usage
- The novel uses anthropomorphism to make the animals more relatable to the readers.
- In mythology, anthropomorphism is a common way to depict gods with human emotions and traits.
psychology
The tendency to attribute human emotions and characteristics to inanimate objects or natural phenomena.
Synonyms
humanization, personification, projection.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
anthropomorphism |
This is used in a scientific or academic context to describe the attribution of human traits, emotions, or intentions to non-human entities, often in literature, art, or psychology.
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projection |
This is used in psychology to describe the act of attributing one's own emotions or traits onto others, or in a broader sense, attributing human traits to non-human entities.
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personification |
Typically used in literature to give human traits to abstract concepts, animals, or inanimate objects. Often used in poetry and creative writing.
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humanization |
This term is used when making something more human or giving it human characteristics, often to make it more relatable or understandable.
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Examples of usage
- The anthropomorphism of the weather can be seen in phrases like 'the sun is smiling.'
- Children often exhibit anthropomorphism when playing with their toys.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Fables, such as those by Aesop, often feature animals with human qualities to convey moral lessons.
- Classic literature like George Orwell's 'Animal Farm' uses anthropomorphism as a way to critique society through the behaviors of animals.
- In children's books, characters like Winnie the Pooh and the Cat in the Hat emerge as timeless examples that teach lessons about friendship and imagination.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that people may feel more empathetic towards animals when they perceive them as having human-like emotions.
- Anthropomorphism can enhance our bond with pets, making them seem more relatable and emotionally supportive.
- It helps explain why people often talk to inanimate objects, attributing feelings when experiencing loneliness or stress.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Zootopia' and 'Finding Nemo' feature characters that exhibit human behaviors, making them relatable to audiences.
- The 'Sonic the Hedgehog' franchise anthropomorphizes animals, allowing fans to connect with their adventures on a human level.
- Cartoons often personify inanimate objects, as seen in 'Toy Story,' where toys have feelings and relationships similar to humans.
Science
- In biology, anthropomorphism can lead to misconceptions about animal behavior, as people may attribute human motives to their actions.
- In research, scientists warn against anthropomorphism when it comes to interpreting animal cognition or emotions, emphasizing species-specific instincts.
- However, some scientists use anthropomorphism as a tool to make complex scientific ideas more accessible to the general public.
Origin of 'anthropomorphism'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Greek words 'anthropos' meaning 'human' and 'morphe' meaning 'form' or 'shape.'
- It has been used since ancient times, with examples found in early literature and mythology that described gods in human form.
- The word began to gain common use in the English language around the 19th century.
The term 'anthropomorphism' comes from the Greek words 'anthropos' (human) and 'morphe' (form), and it has been used in various fields such as literature, psychology, and mythology. The concept of anthropomorphism dates back to ancient times when humans personified gods, animals, and natural elements. It has been a subject of debate among scholars and philosophers, exploring the implications of attributing human characteristics to non-human entities.
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #30,987 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
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- 30984 nationalize
- 30985 paramedical
- 30986 trashy
- 30987 anthropomorphism
- 30988 impish
- 30989 alleyways
- 30990 scandium
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