Animation, n.
Etymology: [L. animatio, fr. animare.]
1. The act of animating, or giving life or spirit; the state of being animate or alive. The animation of the same soul quickening the whole frame. Bp. Hall. Perhaps an inanimate thing supplies me, while I am speaking, with whatever I posses of animation. Landor.
2. The state of being lively, brisk, or full of spirit and vigor; vivacity; spiritedness; as, he recited the story with great animation. Suspended animation, temporary suspension of the vital functions, as in persons nearly drowned.
Syn. -- Liveliness; vivacity; spirit; buoyancy; airiness; sprightliness; promptitude; enthusiasm; ardor; earnestness; energy. See Liveliness.
Shades of meaning
Fernald lists animation only as an antonym, under stupidity.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.