A1noun1K

Animal

UK /["/ˈænɪml/"]/US /["/ˈænɪml/"]/

Definition

a creature that is not a bird, a fish, a reptile, an insect or a human

In simple words: A living creature that can move and eat.

Examples

  • A cat is a small animal that many people keep as a pet.
  • The elephant is the largest land animal in the world.
  • My favorite animal is a dolphin because they are very intelligent.
  • In the zoo, I saw a lion, which is a powerful animal.
  • Birds are an animal that can fly and have feathers.

Usage notes

Used in various contexts, from scientific to everyday conversation. In academic writing, it may refer specifically to members of the kingdom Animalia. In casual speech, it's very common and can refer to pets or wild creatures.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'animal' like 'a-nimal' — imagine a friendly animal by your side.

Collocations

  • wild animal
  • domestic animal
  • animal rights
  • animal behavior

Synonyms

  • creature
  • beast
  • living being
  • organism

Antonyms

  • plant
  • inanimate object

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'animate' which is more abstract.
  • Omitting 's' when talking about animals in plural form.