animal

A living creature, such as a dog, bird, or fish, rather than a person or plant.

• That animal is hungry.
• We saw wild animals in the forest.
• Do you keep any animals at home?

Similar words: creature, beast

Common phrases: wild animal, farm animal, animal shelter, domestic animal

A living thing in a biological group that includes humans, insects, birds, and other creatures.

• Humans are animals.
• The scientist compared animal and plant cells.
• Sponges are animals that live attached to underwater surfaces.

Similar words: critter

Common phrases: multicellular animal, animal species, marine animal

Connected with creatures such as dogs, birds, or insects, or coming from them.

• She studies animal behavior.
• This soup contains no animal fat.
• The charity campaigns for better animal welfare.

Similar words: beastly, bestial

Common phrases: animal welfare, animal fat, animal behavior

Driven by strong physical feelings, without concern for social rules.

• He felt an animal hunger.
• Animal rage took over as he fought.
• The novel describes their relationship as one of animal passion.

Similar words: primitive, primal, brutish

Common phrases: animal passion, animal instincts, animal hunger