# anthropomorphism

/ˌænθɹəpəˈmɔɹfɪzəm/ (US) · /ˈænθɹəpˌɒmɔːfˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/anthropomorphism
Updated: 2026-09-26

## Definition

treating animals, objects, or gods as if they were human. You see this when a cartoon animal talks or wears clothes like a person.

For teachers: the attribution of human characteristics, emotions, or intentions to non-human entities, such as animals or inanimate objects.

## Examples

- The movie uses anthropomorphism to make the talking cars seem real.
- Children's literature often relies on anthropomorphism, giving forest animals human voices and complex social problems to solve.
- While anthropomorphism can help the public empathize with endangered species, scientists warn that projecting human emotions onto wild animals can lead to dangerous misunderstandings of their behavior.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the context of literature, psychology, and religious studies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.