animated

2 of 2

verb

past tense of animate

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective animated contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of animated are gay, lively, sprightly, and vivacious. While all these words mean "keenly alive and spirited," animated applies to what is spirited and active.

an animated discussion of current events

When can gay be used instead of animated?

While in some cases nearly identical to animated, gay stresses complete freedom from care and overflowing spirits.

the gay spirit of Paris in the 1920s

When is lively a more appropriate choice than animated?

Although the words lively and animated have much in common, lively suggests briskness, alertness, or energy.

a lively debate on the issues

When would sprightly be a good substitute for animated?

The words sprightly and animated can be used in similar contexts, but sprightly suggests lightness and spirited vigor of manner or wit.

a tuneful, sprightly musical

When might vivacious be a better fit than animated?

The synonyms vivacious and animated are sometimes interchangeable, but vivacious suggests an activeness of gesture and wit, often playful or alluring.

a vivacious party host

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 animated
Adjective
And yet, no animated film has had quite the staying power as Spirited Away, which seems likely to make the overall list’s top ten and featured on the lists of Bryce Dallas Howard, Molly Ringwald, and John Turturro. Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 24 June 2025 For all his success in the animated realm, DeBlois has never directed a live-action film until now. Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 14 June 2025
Verb
Lazarus is produced by Sola Entertainment and animated by Studio MAPPA. Denise Petski, Deadline, 27 Feb. 2025 Brody worked the room like an architect with a plan, getting animated in a discussion with Board of Governors member Rita Wilson and then regaling SAG Award orator Jane Fonda at the bar. Bryan Alexander, USA TODAY, 27 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for animated
Recent Examples of Synonyms for animated
Adjective
  • Character models in the distance no longer animate at a lower frame rate than those in the foreground.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 6 June 2025
  • No matter its age and despite its survival being dependent on machines, just like its mother, the fetus is entirely animate.
    Lindsey Breitwieser, The Conversation, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • In February, a lively and well-attended protest march took over the streets of downtown McAllen; a news site compared it to a celebration after a high-school-football victory.
    Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 7 July 2025
  • The music was lively, and the people were friendly.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2025
Adjective
  • Fans are excited for what’s going to be a busy rest of the year for Kid Cudi.
    Michael Saponara, Billboard, 10 July 2025
  • Major airports are large, busy, and often behind schedule.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • Born 12 years apart, videos shared by their mom online show an energetic and happy Izzy Offett and a reserved Wayland Coe through the years.
    Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 14 July 2025
  • These curious cats are energetic, curious and know their names.
    Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • The estate’s five acres of gardens, developed over more than a decade, recreate an outdoor haven true to the time period with vibrant blooms and tranquil pathways. ​Smooth Rapids offers a full-service outdoor experience with kayaking, camping, and dining all in one scenic riverside location.
    Korrin Bishop, Southern Living, 13 July 2025
  • Explore vibrant art displays in Saugatuck The diverse local art scene includes galleries, exhibits, studios and public art installations.
    Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 13 July 2025
Adjective
  • These insects have been active since the end of June.
    Chris McKeown, The Enquirer, 12 July 2025
  • State records show that Glass House holds multiple active licenses to grow cannabis.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • In fact, despite its thriving telenovela industry, and many promising starts (see: Charlie’s Angels and 8th & Ocean), Miami has spawned few successful television series outside the realm of reality TV.
    Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 8 July 2025
  • Careful attention to water needs is key to keeping 'Everest' Carex healthy and thriving.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • This special lid prevents splashes from brisk walks and works to keep any heat (or cold) from escaping.
    Kayla Kitts, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025
  • Another takes a brisk walk around the block between back-to-back meetings.
    Ashley B. Stewart, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Animated.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/animated. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

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