animal rights

plural noun

1. the rights of animals, claimed on ethical grounds, to the same humane treatment and protection from exploitation and abuse that are accorded to humans.

animal rights

plural noun

1. 1. the rights of animals to be protected from exploitation and abuse by humans
   2. ( as modifier )

      the animal-rights lobby

Word History and Origins

Origin of animal rights¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Initially, he handed out leaflets on high streets as part of an animal rights group.

From BBC

A protest took place outside the court before the hearing and animal rights campaigners were allowed in the gallery.

From BBC

US-based animal rights group Lady Freethinker, which also helped track the global network, said the "horrors being inflicted on innocent, baby monkeys for online videos are sickening".

From BBC

Some animal rights groups would like to see horse racing go away permanently.

From Los Angeles Times

The Griffith Park Pony Rides shut down in 2022 after protests from animal rights activists.

From Los Angeles Times