The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ENLIVENS
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More clues leading to the result ENLIVENS
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Animates" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case animates = enlivens.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ENLIVENS mean?
ENLIVENS verb- To give life or spirit to; to revive or animate.
- To make more lively, cheerful or interesting.