Animalistic

Animalistic describes behavior or qualities that are characteristic of animals, especially in a negative or uncontrolled way. This often implies a lack of reason, morality, or higher thought, emphasizing primal instincts and base desires. It can refer to actions driven by raw emotions, such as hunger, lust, or fear, or to physical attributes that resemble those of animals. The term carries a connotation of being unrefined, savage, or lacking in humaneness. Often, the focus is on the inherent physical and instinctual drives shared by humans and other animals, highlighting a perceived regression to a more primitive state.

Animalistic meaning with examples

• The survivors, after days without food, exhibited an animalistic hunger, devouring the meager rations with a savage intensity. Their focus was solely on satiating their basic needs. This was evident in their single-minded pursuit of sustenance, abandoning all social graces in their desperation. The sight was a stark reminder of humanity's vulnerability to its primal urges.
• The politician's campaign strategy relied on animalistic tactics, exploiting fear and prejudice to rally support. He used aggressive rhetoric to create division and trigger emotional reactions. This manipulative approach was designed to bypass rational thought and appeal to the voters' baser instincts, playing on their insecurities and biases, demonstrating his cruelty.
• In the heat of the battle, the soldiers' faces contorted into animalistic expressions as they unleashed their rage. They were driven by a desire to inflict harm and ensure their own survival. Their actions were guided by pure instinct. Fear, aggression, and a will to survive took over completely, overriding any sense of compassion or restraint.
• The novel portrays a character driven by an animalistic lust, completely consumed by their physical desires. Their focus was solely on immediate gratification, disregarding social norms and the feelings of others. The obsession rendered them incapable of forming meaningful relationships. They seemed to lack empathy, and their behavior was characterized by a complete lack of self-control.