n. & adj.
n. 1 a living organism which feeds on organic matter, usu. one with specialized sense-organs and nervous system, and able to respond rapidly to stimuli. 2 such an organism other than man. 3 a brutish or uncivilized person. 4 colloq. a person or thing of any kind (there is no such animal).
adj. 1 characteristic of animals. 2 of animals as distinct from vegetables (animal charcoal). 3 characteristic of the physical needs of animals; carnal, sensual. animal husbandry the science of breeding and caring for farm animals. animal magnetism hist. mesmerism. animal spirits natural exuberance.
[ L f. animale neut. of animalis having breath f. anima breath ]