animals

word · lemma: animal

/ˈænəməɫz/
A-nuh-muhlz
/ˈænɪməlz/
A-ni-muhlz

Definition

Living creatures that are not plants or humans, such as dogs, birds, fish, and insects. The word usually refers to creatures in general or to several different kinds of them.

Usage & Nuances

This is the plural of 'animal'. Common combinations include 'wild animals', 'farm animals', 'domestic animals', and 'marine animals'. In casual speech, people may sometimes contrast 'animals' with 'people', even though humans are biologically animals.

Example Sentences

I like animals very much.

basic

The zoo has many animals.

basic

We learned that some animals can recognize themselves in a mirror.

natural

Some animals sleep during the day.

basic

Kids are usually curious about animals, especially big ones.

natural

She cares deeply about animals and volunteers at a rescue center.

natural