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animal

When used scientifically, "animal" refers to any member of the kingdom Animalia, which includes everything from sponges to humans. In a social context, calling a person an "animal" is usually an insult. It suggests that the person lacks manners or self-control and is acting based on raw instinct rather than reason.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Maya is texting Fatima about their mutual friend Ryan's behavior at a party last night.
Maya

Did you see Ryan last night? Total animal.

Maya
Fatima
Fatima

I'm still reeling. He totally trashed the living room.

💡
Maya uses 'animal' in its second definition (a person behaving uncivilized/violently). Fatima responds using the idiom 'still reeling', meaning she is still shocked or upset by the events.

Meanings

noun

A living organism that feeds on organic matter, typically having a specialized nerve system and the ability to move.

"The lion is known as the king of the animal kingdom."

noun

A person who behaves in an uncivilized, violent, or instinctive manner.

"He behaved like a complete animal during the argument."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error