The word "anthropomorphous" is derived from two Greek roots:
"anthropos" (άνθρωπος), meaning "human being"
"morphē" (μορφή), meaning "form"
Meaning and Origin
Anthropomorphous refers to something that is given human form or characteristics. It is often used to describe:
Deities: Many religions depict gods and goddesses as having human-like shapes and qualities. For example, Zeus, the Greek god of thunder, is often portrayed as a bearded man wielding a thunderbolt.
Animals: Animals may be depicted with human attributes, such as talking, wearing clothes, or having human emotions. This is common in fables, fairy tales, and animated films.
Objects or Concepts: Abstract concepts or inanimate objects can also be given human form to make them more relatable or understandable. For example, Lady Justice is often depicted as a blindfolded woman holding a sword and scales.
Robots or AI: Advanced robots or artificial intelligence systems may be designed to move, speak, and interact in a human-like manner.
Examples in Literature
"The old house stood anthropomorphous amid the weeds." (Edgar Allan Poe, "The Fall of the House of Usher")
"He imagined the fox, anthropomorphous, with an expression of almost human cunning." (George Orwell, "Animal Farm")
"The vast, anthropomorphous figure of the goddess filled the sky." (H.G. Wells, "The War of the Worlds")
