anime

noun

an·​i·​me ˈa-nə-ˌmā  ˈä-nē- 

: a style of animation originating in Japan that is characterized by stark colorful graphics depicting vibrant characters in action-filled plots often with fantastic or futuristic themes

Examples of anime in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, Toho was among the first Japanese studios to forge an overseas footprint, including acquiring leading anime distributor Gkids in North America. —Sara Merican, Deadline, 16 Jan. 2025

So why does this hasty history lesson have any relevance to today’s global anime market? —Ollie Barder, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025

During Euro 2024, between games of Uno and Fortnite, Simons watched Japanese anime to relax. —The Athletic Uk Staff, The Athletic, 10 Jan. 2025

In the meantime, Alexa Bliss has also ventured into voice acting, lending her talents to the Netflix anime Sakamoto Days, based on the manga by Yuto Suzuki. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 10 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Japanese, animation, short for animēshiyon, from English

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

anime

noun

an·​i·​me ˈan-ə-ˌmā  ˈä-nē- 

: a style of animation originating in Japan that has stark colorful graphics, action-filled plots, and often fantastic or futuristic themes

Etymology

from Japanese, literally, "animation," short for animēshiyon (from English)