animate
AN-ih-muht
Animate (verb) means to bring something to life, or to make a picture or object appear to move on its own. Example: “The studio animated the entire film using hand-drawn cels.”
verb
1
To bring something to life, or to make a picture or object appear to move on its own.
"The studio animated the entire film using hand-drawn cels."
"Software can now animate a character's face from just a photo."
2
To give energy, purpose, or excitement to something.
"A shared sense of mission animated the whole team."
"Passion for the cause animated her speech."
adj
1
Alive, or full of energy and movement.
"Philosophers have long debated what separates animate matter from inanimate matter."
"His animate gestures made the story more engaging."
How to use animate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo make something move or seem alive, or to fill it with energy.
Common mistake
As an adjective ("animate objects") it means simply "alive"; the verb usually refers to giving movement or motivation.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- animates
- Past tense
- animated
- Comparative
- more animate
- Superlative
- most animate
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The studio _____ the entire film using hand-drawn cels.
Etymology
From Latin animatus, "filled with breath or spirit," from anima ("soul, breath") — the same root as "animal" and "animation."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for animate
See all rhymes for animate →Frequently asked questions
What does “animate” mean?
The word “animate” means to bring something to life, or to make a picture or object appear to move on its own. In plain terms, to make something move or seem alive, or to fill it with energy.
How do you pronounce “animate”?
“Animate” is pronounced AN-ih-muht (/ˈæn.ə.mət/ in IPA).
How do you use “animate” in a sentence?
Here is “animate” used in a sentence: “The studio animated the entire film using hand-drawn cels.”
What part of speech is “animate”?
Depending on how it is used, “animate” can be a verb and an adjective.
Where does the word “animate” come from?
The word “animate” comes from Latin. From Latin animatus, "filled with breath or spirit," from anima ("soul, breath") — the same root as "animal" and "animation.".
Is “animate” a common word?
“Animate” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “animate” have?
“Animate” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to bring something to life, or to make a picture or object appear to move on its own.
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