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

An old-school World War II drama, a quietly powerful Irish drama, a Christmas story and a fantasy anime arrive in movie theaters this week. —Randy Myers, The Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2024

The company is also releasing several animation titles, including French animation Fireheart, directed by Theodore Ty and Laurent Zeitoun, and classic Japanese anime Road To Ninja – Naruto The Movie (2012), which is already on release. —Liz Shackleton, Deadline, 4 Nov. 2024

Since the mid-1990s, Pikachu and friends have dominated everything from anime to McDonald's Happy Meal toys. —PCMAG, 1 Nov. 2024

Almost 30 years later, Cowboy Bebop is still regarded as one of the most iconic and influential anime series of the 20th century. —Charles Pulliam-Moore, The Verge, 30 Oct. 2024

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)