animal
/aniˈmal/masculine
The English phrase 'animal' is translated into Spanish as animal.
The word animal refers to an organism other than human. It can also be used as an adjective meaning 'of animals' or to describe someone as 'unhindered by social codes'.
Meaning: organism other than human (noun)
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun animal is masculine. To form the plural, use animales. Note that while animal is masculine, the related term la criatura is feminine.
How do you pronounce it?
/aniˈmal/
Did you know?
- The Latin root of animal comes from anima, meaning 'breath' or 'soul', connecting the idea of a living creature to the act of breathing.
- In a colloquial context, calling someone animal can be a way to describe them as a 'beast' in a positive sense, such as an athlete with extraordinary skill.
- The Spanish word animal has a hidden 'cousin' in the word alimaña, which refers to pests or predatory animals. While animal is a neutral term, alimaña carries a much more negative, derogatory connotation.
Examples in context
- Él es un animal.He's an animal.This sentence is useful for practicing the noun animal.Tatoeba #1684170 by marcelostockle, translation #1669955 by Spamster
- Ese animal es mío.This animal is mine.Tatoeba #2117889 by marcelostockle, translation #4468850 by jakob
- El león es un animal.The lion is an animal.Tatoeba #598209 by Leono, translation #598222 by kroko
- El animal es un ser vivo con capacidad de movimiento propio.An animal is a living being with the ability to move on its own.
- El león es considerado una bestia majestuosa en la naturaleza.The lion is considered a majestic beast in nature.
- Las ballenas son criaturas marinas impresionantes y pacíficas.Whales are impressive and peaceful sea creatures.
- ¡Ten cuidado al sentarte! Hay un bicho en la silla.Be careful when sitting! There's a bug on the chair.
- Mi perro es un animalito muy inteligente y leal.My dog is a very smart and loyal little animal.
- 170 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
María and Daniel are looking at a nature documentary.
- MaríaMira qué animal es ese, Daniel.Look what animal that is, Daniel.
- DanielEs un animal muy raro.It is a very strange animal.
- MaríaEs impresionante, Daniel.It is impressive, Daniel.
- DanielSí, la naturaleza es increíble.Yes, nature is incredible.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “animal” translations and entries animal, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries animal, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
