Definition

Describing something that is lifeless or lacking energy and vitality.

Example

The exanimate body lay still on the ground, untouched by the world around it.

Conversation

Did you see that documentary on the abandoned town?

Yeah, it was so eerie and exanimate!

I know, right? It felt like the place had been frozen in time.

Totally! You could almost feel the lifelessness of it all.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Exanimate → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "anima" (meaning soul or life). The word describes something that is devoid of life or spirit, literally meaning 'out of life.'

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'out of life' ('ex-') and 'soul' ('anima') — that's why exanimate means lifeless.

Visually Confused Words