1. relating to or characterized by animism, the belief that natural objects and phenomena have souls or spirits
Usage: anthropology; religion

Examples

• Many indigenous cultures hold animistic beliefs about trees and rivers.
• The animistic worldview sees spirits in mountains, rocks, and animals.
• Animistic traditions often involve rituals to honor nature spirits.
• The tribe’s animistic practices included offerings to the forest spirits.
• Animistic religions typically emphasize the interconnectedness of all living things.
• The shaman’s animistic beliefs guided his healing ceremonies.