Deanthropomorphic

/diːænθrəpəˈmɔːrfɪk/ adjective

Definition

Removing or stripping away human characteristics, forms, or qualities from something.

Etymology

Prefix 'de-' (meaning to remove or undo) combined with 'anthropomorphic' (from Greek 'anthropos' meaning human, and 'morphe' meaning form). Created to describe the opposite of anthropomorphizing.

Kelly Says

Scientists use deanthropomorphic language when studying animals to avoid imposing human emotions onto them—saying a dog 'exhibits territorial behavior' rather than 'is angry' helps us see nature more clearly.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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