Definition

A person who believes that all matter is alive or has life-like qualities.

Example

The hylozoist argued that even inanimate objects possess a form of life.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a hylozoist?

No, I haven't! What does that mean?

It's someone who believes that all matter is alive, kind of interesting, right?

That is interesting! I love learning about different philosophies.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hylozoist is formed from "hylo-" (from Greek "hyle", meaning matter or wood) and "zoist" (from Greek "zoon", meaning animal or living being). The term refers to the belief that all matter is alive or has life, combining the concepts of matter and life.

Memory Tip

Think of 'matter' ('hylo-') being 'alive' ('zoon') — that's why a hylozoist believes that everything around us has life.

Visually Confused Words