anthropomorphic

Also an·thro·po·mor·phous

[an-thruh-puh-mawr-fik]

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.

anthropomorphic

/ ˌænθrəpəˈmɔːfɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to anthropomorphism

2. resembling the human form

Other Word Forms

• anthropomorph noun
• anthropomorphically adverb
• anthropomorphously adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of anthropomorphic¹

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

Example Sentences

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

Murakami is unquestionably adept with a brush, a pen or a computer, creating iconic art that features manga, anime, cartoons and brightly colored anthropomorphic cherry blossoms, mushrooms and assorted flowers.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• humanlike www.thesaurus.com