anima

American  

[an-uh-muh] / ˈæn ə mə /

noun

1. soul; life.

2. (in the psychology of C. G. Jung)

   1. the inner personality that is turned toward the unconscious of the individual (contrasted with persona).

   2. the feminine principle, especially as present in men.

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anima British  

/ ˈænɪmə /

noun

1. 1. the feminine principle as present in the male unconscious

   2. the inner personality, which is in communication with the unconscious See also animus

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Etymology

Origin of anima

1920–25; < Latin: breath, vital force, soul, spirit

Compare meaning

How does anima compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• anima vs. animus

Explanation

Your anima is the unconscious part of your mind that works automatically, without introspection or awareness. Some psychologists believe your anima affects your dreams, fears, and habits. Psychologist Carl Jung came up with the ideas of anima and animus, parts of your psyche — or spirit — that connect with the deepest, most subconscious aspects of the mind. Originally, Jung used anima to talk about the feminine parts of a man's personality. The Latin origin of the word is animus, "rational soul, life, or intelligence," from a root that means "to blow" or "to breathe."

Example Sentences

The items had been held in the Vatican Museum's ethnographic collection, known as the Anima Mundi museum.

From BBC • Nov. 15, 2025

When Anima and The Weeknd finally meet, things take a brief turn for the surreal.

From Salon • May 19, 2025

“Every studio still needs an accountant or people to support with the budgeting,” Reyes, of Anima Interactive, said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 17, 2024

The Rev. Nicola Mappelli, curator of the Anima Mundi museum, declined to comment on calls for restitution of the Vatican’s own ethnographic holdings, saying these were questions for the museum leadership.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 16, 2023

Following the Via dell' Anima from hence, on the right, opposite the medi�val Torre Mellina, is the Church of Sant' Agnese.

From Walks in Rome by Hare, Augustus J. C.