anime

noun

an·​i·​me ˈa-nə-ˌmā How to pronounce anime (audio) ˈä-nē- How to pronounce anime (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The animation styles, varying from episode to episode, are all dynamic and gorgeous, paying homage to both a classic anime style and Star Wars' own more wry feeling. Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Sep. 2025 Rei is talking with her mom on the phone about her burgeoning anime illustrator career. Kayti Burt, Time, 26 Sep. 2025 The Japanese anime series follows a young figure skater Yuri who, after a string of crushing losses leading up to the Grand Prix Finale, is taken under the wing of a Russian figure skating champion named Victor, who decides to be his coach. James Factora, Them., 26 Sep. 2025 The event features booths selling anime, manga, collectibles and cards. Marcus Smith, Sacbee.com, 26 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for anime

Word History

Etymology

Japanese, animation, short for animēshiyon, from English

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of anime was in 1985

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Cite this Entry

“Anime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anime. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

anime

noun
an·​i·​me ˈan-ə-ˌmā How to pronounce anime (audio) ˈä-nē- How to pronounce anime (audio)
: 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)

More from Merriam-Webster on anime

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