3

You know that Disney movie Frozen? Remember the part where Kristoff is alone with his elk or reindeer and he is speaking for it in order with have a conversation with himself?

Is there a word for doing that? For speaking out loud for your pet?

Not necessarily attributing human characteristics but actually speaking for your pet.

Cause I do it all the time for my Bassett Hound mix.

Yes, I'm single and live alone and don't have any friends.

Improve this question
5
  • 2
    Not an answer, but this made me think of "rubber-ducking", where you explain a problem (e.g. in programming) to a real or imaginary rubber duck (or to a colleague, who has no insight in the problem)
    – Stefan
    Nov 28, 2015 at 8:50
  • 1
    I wouldn't worry until the basset talks back. Then you both might consider couples therapy.
    – deadrat
    Nov 28, 2015 at 9:10
  • St David (of Wales) used to send messages to distant friends by going to the seashore and talking to the seals He solved a tricky problem with a cook with the answers he got back, Rhygyfarch's Life of David.
    – Hugh
    Nov 28, 2015 at 12:13
  • 1
    Not a spot-on but I once (perhaps incorrectly) used ventriloquise when describing a kid playing his toys and voicing their conversation.
    – RexYuan
    Nov 29, 2015 at 15:09
  • Then I'll make it an answer then!
    – RexYuan
    Dec 1, 2015 at 8:14

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
1

Although it is mainly used for describing the performance of ventriloquism, I used (perhaps incorrectly) ventriloquize to something like what you're asking.

ventriloquize: to speak or sound in the manner of a ventriloquist [Dictionary.com]

I used the word to describe a boy playing his toys and voicing them(like what Andy did in those Toy Story movies). I am not sure whether it's acceptable to use it in such figurative sense, though.

Improve this answer
1

Since you have ruled out "anthropomorphizing" by writing, "Not necessarily attributing human characteristics," I don't believe there is a single term in English for what you describe.

Improve this answer
1
  • Right, the term is anthropomorphising
    – Jim
    Nov 28, 2015 at 16:46

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.