Dictionary
Thesaurus
Sentence Examples

Dictionary Home » Dictionary Definitions » animus

animus

Listen See in Thesaurus See in a sentence

The definition of animus is a feeling of hostility or ill will, or the motivation to do something.

(noun)

When you feel a really strong dislike for your roommate's boyfriend because he always leaves your apartment a big mess, this feeling you feel is an example of animus.
When you go to the doctor and he tells you that you are in danger of getting diabetes if you don't lose weight and you then decide to go on a diet, the doctor's warning is an example of animus.

YourDictionary definition and usage example. Copyright © 2013 by LoveToKnow Corp.

See animus in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

an animating force or underlying purpose; intention
in Jungian psychology, the masculine component of the unconscious of a woman, specif. when apprehended as a male figure by the psyche
a feeling of strong ill will or hatred; animosity

Origin: L, soul, mind, disposition, passion, akin to anima: see animal

See animus in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

An attitude that informs one's actions; disposition.
A feeling of animosity; ill will. See Synonyms at enmity.
In Jungian psychology, the masculine inner personality as present in women.

Origin:

Origin: Latin; see anə- in Indo-European roots

.

Learn more about animus

animus synonyms

animus legal definition

animus medical definition

animus in a sentence

link/cite print suggestion box

More from YD

About YourDictionary Advertisers Contact Us Privacy Policy Terms of Use Help
© 1996-2013 LoveToKnow, Corp. All Rights Reserved. Audio pronunciation provided by LoveToKnow, Corp.