anime

noun

an·​i·​me ˈa-nə-ˌmā  ˈä-nē- 

: a style of animation originating in Japan that is characterized by stark colorful graphics depicting vibrant characters in action-filled plots often with fantastic or futuristic themes

Examples of anime in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This week, Netflix features the latest installment in a legendary anime series, a Spanish-language thriller stuffed with social commentary, and a Canadian horror about a mysterious beast stalking an isolated fishing village. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 2 Oct. 2026

In general, publishers in the test seem to agree that certain topics that are not as widely covered but have strong niche interest earn more, including anime and gaming. — Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 30 Sep. 2026

The original manga was previously adapted into a popular anime series in Japan in the 1980s, which was also broadcast in France. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 29 Sep. 2026

The tie-up arrives as anime graduates from niche fandom to mainstream commercial territory. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 24 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Japanese, animation, short for animēshiyon, from English

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for anime

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• assez
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway

Kids Definition

anime

noun

an·​i·​me ˈan-ə-ˌmā  ˈä-nē- 

: a style of animation originating in Japan that has stark colorful graphics, action-filled plots, and often fantastic or futuristic themes

Etymology

from Japanese, literally, "animation," short for animēshiyon (from English)