PERSONLIKE Meaning and
Definition
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Personlike is an adjective that describes or pertains to qualities, characteristics, or behaviors resembling those typically associated with a human being. It implies the attribution of human-like qualities to an object, entity, or being that is not a person in the literal sense.
When applied to inanimate objects, the term personlike refers to the attribution of human characteristics to an object, often giving it a personality or making it seem more relatable. This can be seen in the characterization of animals, toys, or even inanimate objects found in literary works, where they are imbued with human-like qualities such as emotions, thoughts, or intentions. For example, a children's story might depict a teddy bear as personlike, with the ability to talk or express emotions, thus establishing a connection between the reader and the toy.
Additionally, personlike can also be used to describe the behavior or demeanor of an individual that closely aligns with what is expected from a human being. For instance, someone who displays empathy, compassion, or kindness towards others might be described as personlike due to their humanistic qualities.
Furthermore, in a broader context, personlike can also refer to the representation of an individual or a character that closely resembles an actual person or bears strong resemblance to human characteristics, either physically or psychologically. This can be observed in works of art, such as sculptures or portraits, where the artist aims to create a lifelike representation of an individual.
In summary, personlike is used to describe objects, behaviors, or representations that possess qualities resembling those typically associated with a human being, either in a literal sense or figuratively.
Etymology of PERSONLIKE
The word "personlike" is derived from the combination of two elements: "person" and "like".
1. "Person" comes from the Latin word "persona", which referred to a theatrical mask or character. In Latin, "persona" also meant "person" or "human being". This Latin term originated from the Etruscan word "phersu" meaning "mask". As the word evolved in different Romance languages, it retained its meaning of an individual or a human.
2. The suffix "-like" is used to form adjectives that express similarity or resemblance to a particular noun. When attached to "person", it creates "personlike", suggesting that something possesses characteristics or qualities similar to those of a person.
