animal 1 of 2

as in creature
one of the lower animals as distinguished from human beings we saw a lot of animals at the wildlife refuge—cranes, alligators, deer, a fox, even an armadillo

Synonyms & Similar Words

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animal

2 of 2

adjective

Synonym Chooser

How is the word animal different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of animal are carnal, fleshly, and sensual. While all these words mean "having a relation to the body," animal stresses the physical as distinguished from the rational nature of a person.

led a mindless animal existence

When can carnal be used instead of animal?

The words carnal and animal are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, carnal may mean only this but more often connotes derogatorily an action or manifestation of a person's lower nature.

a slave to carnal desires

How do fleshly and carnal relate to one another, in the sense of animal?

Fleshly is less derogatory than carnal.

a saint who had experienced fleshly temptations

When is it sensible to use sensual instead of animal?

The words sensual and animal can be used in similar contexts, but sensual may apply to any gratification of a bodily desire or pleasure but commonly implies sexual appetite with absence of the spiritual or intellectual.

fleshpots providing sensual delights

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of animal
Noun
The market has likely overreacted to the company’s challenges, specifically regarding the uncertainty around animal testing. Kenneth Squire, CNBC, 10 May 2025 But be aware that animals sometimes get accustomed to the funky taste or smell. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 10 May 2025
Adjective
Animal lovers will enjoy horseback riding or visiting one of the area’s animal sanctuaries. Katie Seemann, Travel + Leisure, 25 Apr. 2023 Smoothies are an easy way to incorporate more non-animal protein into your diet. Amy Stanford, Health, 27 Mar. 2023 See All Example Sentences for animal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for animal
Noun
  • Elsewhere in the film, the Irish vampire Remmick, pursued by Choctaw vampire hunters, tricks his way into the protection of a pair of Klan members living near Clarksdale and turns them into creatures of the night.
    Adam Serwer, The Atlantic, 2 May 2025
  • These footprints are more commonly found in coastal deposits, suggesting that these creatures waded through shallow waters to catch fish or scoop up floating prey, much like modern-day flamingos.
    Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • Two runs in the sixth came courtesy of a mental error and a physical error by the Rockies.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 May 2025
  • In this new role, Lindsey will lead the strategic design and development of exhibits and physical experiences at the Amazeum and with partner institutions across the region.
    Deb Harvell, Arkansas Online, 11 May 2025
Noun
  • Hartford Courant Last word Couldn’t help but notice, the majestic 12-point beast that has been watching over Dunkin’ Park from the right field roof since day one — clearly visible even from the press box — mysteriously vanished this week.
    Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 3 May 2025
  • His pole-dancing polar bear — a legless white beast posed like a defeated stripper — disarms the familiar.
    Petala Ironcloud, New York Times, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • In the 2024 federal trial Haley was convicted of deliberate indifference resulting serious bodily injury and deprivation of civil rights, and could face a life sentence in prison.
    James Bickerton, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025
  • The district attorney also said Figueroa is being charged with using a handgun to cause great bodily injury or death, which carries an additional possible sentencing of 25 years-to-life.
    Sean Neumann, People.com, 8 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Animal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/animal. Accessed 16 May. 2025.

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