If you describe a person or their behaviour as animalistic, you mean that they do not try to hide or control their basic feelings and physical needs. The two teams were matched in a ferocious, almost animalistic battle.

What does it mean to be animalistic?

noun. preoccupation with or motivation by sensual, physical, or carnal appetites rather than moral, spiritual, or intellectual forces. the theory that human beings lack a spiritual nature.

What is it called when something is described like an animal?

This is called zoomorphism. Zoomorphism also includes assigning animal-like qualities to gods and inanimate objects. The term comes from the Greek words zōon, which means “animal,” and morphē, which means “form or shape.”