anthropomorphism

[ an-thruh-puh-mawr-fiz-uhm ]

noun

1. an anthropomorphic conception or representation, as of a deity.

anthropomorphism

/ ˌænθrəpəˈmɔːfɪzəm /

noun

1. the attribution of human form or behaviour to a deity, animal, etc

anthropomorphism

1. The attributing of human characteristics and purposes to inanimate objects, animals, plants, or other natural phenomena, or to God. To describe a rushing river as “angry” is to anthropomorphize it.

Derived Forms

• ˌanthropoˈmorphist, noun

Other Words From

• anthro·po·morphist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of anthropomorphism¹

First recorded in 1745–55; anthropo- + -morphism

Example Sentences

Although people in many Indigenous cultures have long believed that animals can intentionally communicate, Western scientists traditionally have shied away from research that blurs the lines between humans and other animals for fear of being accused of anthropomorphism.

From Scientific American

I'm not a fan of using the anthropomorphism card.

From Salon

Anthropomorphism: The tendency for people to attribute human-like qualities or characteristics to an A.I. chatbot.

From New York Times

This is known as anthropomorphism.

From New York Times

Anthropomorphism: The tendency for people to attribute humanlike qualities or characteristics to an A.I. chatbot.

From New York Times