The representation of deities or supernatural beings in animal form, or the attribution of animal characteristics to gods. Common in ancient religions where gods appeared as or transformed into animals.
From Greek 'therion' (wild animal) and 'morphe' (form). This practice predates anthropomorphism in human religious development, reflecting humanity's early spiritual connection with the animal world.
Ancient Egyptians mastered theriomorphism so thoroughly that gods like Anubis (jackal-headed) and Sobek (crocodile) weren't just animal-shaped—they embodied the spiritual essence of these creatures' roles in the ecosystem!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.