anime

noun

an·​i·​me ˈa-nə-ˌmā How to pronounce anime (audio) ˈä-nē- How to pronounce anime (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Like many Chileans, Valeria Vivar's connection to Korea began with a childhood fascination with anime and other Asian cultures. — John Bartlett, NPR, 8 Aug. 2026 The interview questions below contain spoilers for the anime’s first season. — Kalai Chik, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 The conference program will run approximately 20 sessions on topics spanning Japanese IP’s overseas growth, an anime industry report, AI and international business ties, with particular attention to Asian markets. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 4 Aug. 2026 Crunchyroll is a joint venture between Sony Pictures Entertainment and Aniplex, the anime production arm of Sony Music Entertainment in Japan. — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for anime

Word History

Etymology

Japanese, animation, short for animēshiyon, from English

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of anime was in 1985

Rhymes for anime

See All Rhymes for anime

Browse Nearby Words

animatronics
anime
Animikean
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Cite this Entry

“Anime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anime. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

anime

noun
an·​i·​me ˈan-ə-ˌmā How to pronounce anime (audio) ˈä-nē- How to pronounce anime (audio)
: 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)

More from Merriam-Webster on anime

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about anime

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