The word “animalcular” is not commonly used in everyday language, but it is still important to understand its meaning and usage. In this article, we will explore the definition and origin of the word, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The word “animalcular” is an adjective that describes something as being composed of or containing small animals or organisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. It can also refer to something that resembles or is suggestive of such animals or organisms.
Origin
The word “animalcular” comes from the Latin word “animalculum,” which means “little animal.” It was first used in English in the early 18th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “animalcular” means “consisting of or containing minute animals.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “of, relating to, or consisting of animalcules.”
Associations
The word “animalcular” is often associated with the microscopic world, as it describes organisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. It can also be associated with biology, zoology, and microbiology.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “animalcular” include microscopic, tiny, minuscule, and infinitesimal.
Antonyms
Antonyms for “animalcular” include macroscopic, visible, and large.
The same root words
The root word of “animalcular” is “animal,” which comes from the Latin word “anima,” meaning “breath” or “soul.” Other words that share this root include “animate,” “animalistic,” and “animalism.”
Example Sentences
- The pond water was teeming with animalcular life.
- The microscope revealed a world of animalcular organisms.
- The artist’s painting was full of animalcular shapes and patterns.
- The scientist studied the animalcular composition of the soil.
- The philosopher pondered the relationship between the animalcular and the divine.