animus
Animus (noun) means Strong dislike, hostility, or ill will toward someone or something. Example: “He couldn't explain his animus toward his former partner.”
How to use animus
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHostility or underlying intent behind someone's actions.
In everyday use "animus" leans toward hostility; in law it often just means "intent," without necessarily implying malice.
Word forms
animuses plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He couldn't explain his _____ toward his former partner.
Etymology
A learned borrowing directly from Latin animus, meaning "mind, spirit, intention" — closely related to anima ("soul, breath").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for animus
See all rhymes for animus →Frequently asked questions
What does “animus” mean?
The word “animus” means strong dislike, hostility, or ill will toward someone or something. In plain terms, hostility or underlying intent behind someone's actions.
How do you pronounce “animus”?
“Animus” is pronounced A-nih-muhs (/ˈæ.nɪ.məs/ in IPA).
How do you use “animus” in a sentence?
Here is “animus” used in a sentence: “He couldn't explain his animus toward his former partner.”
What part of speech is “animus”?
“Animus” is a noun.
Where does the word “animus” come from?
The word “animus” comes from Latin. A learned borrowing directly from Latin animus, meaning "mind, spirit, intention" — closely related to anima ("soul, breath").
How many meanings does “animus” have?
“Animus” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: strong dislike, hostility, or ill will toward someone or something.