Animatism

/ˈænɪməˌtɪzəm/ noun

Definition

The belief that all natural objects and phenomena possess a spiritual essence or life force, even inanimate things like rocks and water.

Etymology

From 'animate' + '-ism' (a system of beliefs). This anthropological term was coined in the late 19th century to describe a stage of religious belief between pure animism and more developed religions.

Kelly Says

Animatism is like animism's philosophical cousin—while animism says spirits live in everything, animatism suggests that everything has some kind of vital life force, which influenced how early religions and philosophies developed worldwide!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.