animal rights

American  

plural noun

1. the rights of animals, claimed on ethical grounds, to the same humane treatment and protection from exploitation and abuse that are accorded to humans.

---

animal rights British  

plural noun

1. 1. the rights of animals to be protected from exploitation and abuse by humans

   2. ( as modifier )

      the animal-rights lobby

---

Etymology

Origin of animal rights

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

animal rights

Other candidates have dressed up as furry animals or seagulls to draw attention to animal rights.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 12, 2026

While Spanish bullfighting has long been a target of animal rights activists, no such public controversy has emerged around guanniu in China.

From Barron's ● Jun. 28, 2026

The last two elephants, Billy and Tina, were transferred last year to the Tulsa Zoo after decades of campaigning by animal rights advocates over living conditions and a history of deaths and health challenges.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 16, 2026

Prosecutors allege Hsiung, a 44-year-old lawyer and co-founder of two California-based animal rights groups, entered a facility that breeds dogs for medical testing and stole property: beagles.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 7, 2026

It is by Peter Singer, a leader of the animal rights movement.

From "The Omnivore's Dilemma" by Michael Pollan