anthropomorphic

American  

[an-thruh-puh-mawr-fik] / ˌæn θrə pəˈmɔr fɪk /

Also anthropomorphous

adjective

1. ascribing human form or attributes to a being or thing not human, especially to a deity: Children especially love anthropomorphic tales where talking animal friends have exciting adventures.

   Much has been written on the anthropomorphic qualities of the God of the Hebrew Scriptures.

   Children especially love anthropomorphic tales where talking animal friends have exciting adventures.

2. resembling or made to resemble a human form.

   an anthropomorphic carving.

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anthropomorphic British  

/ ˌænθrəpəˈmɔːfɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to anthropomorphism

2. resembling the human form

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Other Word Forms

• anthropomorph noun
• anthropomorphically adverb
• anthropomorphously adverb

Etymology

Origin of anthropomorphic

First recorded in 1820–30; anthropo- + -morphic

Example Sentences

In our bizarro world, the “Zootopia” franchise serves as a vehicle for thought-provoking subjects disseminated by way of colorful anthropomorphic animals.

From Los Angeles Times

Whether for her conspicuous bowl cut and pink tee, or her singing anthropomorphic backpack, Dora the Explorer has sparked joy in children for generations.

From Los Angeles Times

There were also searches for women and anthropomorphic animal characters wearing very little clothing.

From BBC

Could putting ourselves in another animal’s shoes — anthropomorphically speaking — actually help us understand them better?

From Salon

They are hobbyists who enjoy dressing up as cartoon characters and stuffed animals, create elaborate artworks involving anthropomorphic animals and sometimes attend conventions while wearing homemade animal costumes.

From Salon

Related Words

• humanlike