(an'ĭ-mizm )

[anima + -ism]

1. Attribution of spiritual qualities and mental capabilities to nonhuman living creatures, e.g., animals or trees, or to inanimate objects, e.g., mountains.
2. A system of practices or a religion based on such a belief.

SEE: aboriginal healing (2); shaman; shamanism.

(an'ĭ-mist‵)

(an‵ĭ-mis'tik)