English Reference

Word

animated

Phoneticsan·i·mat·ed, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈænəˌmeɪtɪd/

UK/ˈænɪmˌeɪtɪd/

Definitions

01lively and energetic

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. full of interest and energy, especially when talking or moving.

adj. characterised by high energy, vigour, or lively spirit; often used to describe a person's facial expressions or conversation style.

“The two friends were having an animated conversation about their holiday plans.”

“The professor became increasingly animated as he reached the core of his argument, gesturing broadly to emphasize each point.”

02film/graphics

B1 · Intermediate

adj. made of drawings or computer images that appear to move.

adj. produced by the technique of photographic or digital manipulation of drawings or models to create the illusion of motion.

“The studio is famous for making beautiful animated films for children.”

“Modern animated features often blend traditional hand-drawn techniques with sophisticated computer-generated imagery to achieve a unique aesthetic.”

Synonyms

Antonyms

live-action

03living

C2 · Proficiency Science Formal · Technical

adj. having life; being alive rather than dead or an object.

adj. endowed with life or living qualities; used to distinguish biological entities from inanimate matter.

“The scientist studied the difference between animated beings and rocks.”

“The philosopher explored the boundary between animated organisms and the mechanical systems that mimic their behaviour.”

Synonyms

Antonyms

Real-World Examples

“The entire film is rotoscoped, a technique invented by Max Fleischer back in 1915, where artists hand-draw over each frame of the film, leading to a hyper-real animated style.”
The Guardian 1 Sept 2026
“Some also post animated guides for people to follow along with.”
BBC News 29 Aug 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Common
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference