animación
“animación” means “animation” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
animation
Also: cartoons
📝 In Action
Me encanta la animación de esta película.
A1I love the animation in this movie.
El estudio utiliza técnicas de animación en 3D.
B1The studio uses 3D animation techniques.
La animación japonesa tiene muchos seguidores en todo el mundo.
A2Japanese animation has many followers all over the world.
liveliness
Also: buzz, life
📝 In Action
Hay mucha animación en las calles durante el festival.
A2There is a lot of buzz in the streets during the festival.
La música le dio más animación a la fiesta.
B1The music gave the party more life.
Echo de menos la animación de la gran ciudad.
B2I miss the busyness of the big city.
entertainment
Also: social organizing
📝 In Action
El hotel ofrece animación para niños todas las tardes.
A2The hotel offers entertainment for children every afternoon.
Trabajó todo el verano en el equipo de animación de un crucero.
B1She worked all summer on the entertainment team of a cruise ship.
La animación turística es fundamental en este resort.
B2Tourist entertainment is essential in this resort.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: animación
Question 1 of 3
If a street has 'mucha animación,' what does it mean?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'animatio', which comes from 'animare', meaning 'to give life or soul to'. It shares a root with the word for soul (ánima).
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'animación' only for movies?
No! While it means 'animation' (cartoons), it's very commonly used to describe the atmosphere of a place (liveliness) or organized fun at a hotel.
What is the difference between 'animación' and 'ánimo'?
'Animación' is the energy of a place or the art of cartoons. 'Ánimo' refers to a person's mood, spirit, or the encouragement you give someone (like saying 'Cheers!').
How do I say 'animated movie'?
The most natural way is 'película de animación'.