What term describes the attribution of human characteristics to nonhuman entities?

The term that describes the attribution of human characteristics to nonhuman entities is personification. This literary device is commonly used to give humans traits, emotions, or behaviors to animals, inanimate objects, or abstract concepts, making them relatable and allowing readers to connect with the narrative on a more personal level.

Personification is effective in creating imagery and enriching storytelling by allowing audiences to empathize with nonhuman characters or elements. While anthropomorphism is similar, it often refers specifically to giving animals human traits or behaviors, whereas personification encompasses a broader range, including inanimate objects and concepts.

Metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unlike things directly, without using "like" or "as," but it does not necessarily involve human attributes. Personality typically refers to the characteristics or qualities that form an individual's distinctive character and is not related to the literary attribute in question.