what does the word anthropomorphism mean?

Answer 1

It's when you apply human characteristics to a non-human.

Mickey Mouse is an anthropomorphic mouse.
The apple trees in The Wizard of Oz were anthropomorphic (likewise, the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion).
When you say something like "my computer didn't like that program" you're anthropomorphizing the computer.
Some would say that referring to God as "He" (or "She") is anthropomorphism.

Get it?

Answer 2

Anthropomorphism is when non-human objects or animals are given human characteristics. A cartoon character like Mickey Mouse is an anthropomorphism; he is a mouse who walks and talks and dresses like a human.

Answer 3

Anthropomorphism is the attribution of human characteristics and qualities to non-human beings, objects, natural, or supernatural phenomena. A form of personification (applying human or animal qualities to inanimate objects), anthropomorphism is similar to prosopopoeia (adopting the persona of another person). Animals, forces of nature, and unseen or unknown authors of chance are frequent subjects of anthropomorphosis.

The term comes from two Greek words, άνθρωπος (anthrōpos), meaning "human", and μορφή (morphē), meaning "shape" or "form". The suffix '-ism' originates from the morpheme '-isma' in the Greek language.

Answer 4

an anthropomorphic concept or representation, as of a deity. anthropomorphic potential ascribing human variety or attributes to a being or ingredient no longer human, esp. to a deity, or akin to or made to resemble a human variety: an anthropomorphic carving.

Answer 5

an·thro·po·mor·phism (nthr-p-môrfzm) Pronunciation Key
n.
Attribution of human motivation, characteristics, or behavior to inanimate objects, animals, or natural phenomena.

Answer 6

to project human qualities onto animals.