animus

Definition

The basic impulses and instincts which govern one's actions.

Etymology

Learned borrowing from Latin animus (“the mind, in a great variety of meanings: the rational soul in man, intellect, consciousness, will, intention, courage, spirit, sensibility, feeling, passion, pride, vehemence, wrath, etc., the breath, life, soul”), from Proto-Italic *anamos, from Proto-Indo-European *h₂enh₁mos, from *h₂enh₁- (“to breathe”). Closely related to Latin anima, which is a feminine form.

Example Sentences

• "The current row arose swiftly, sparked both by historical animus and jockeying over future power and place in Asia - and it surprised many observers in the depth of antipathy on both sides."
• "However, the Republican party's anti-ESG animus has undoubtedly played a role, according to Bloy."
• "Despite the animus against him, Mélenchon came within an inch of making the presidential election run-off in 2022, just behind Le Pen."

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