humanity

American  

[hyoo-man-i-tee, yoo-] / hyuˈmæn ɪ ti, yu- /

noun

PLURAL

humanities

1. all human beings collectively; the human race; humankind.

2. the quality or condition of being human; human nature.

3. the quality of being humane; kindness; benevolence.

   Synonyms:

   goodwill , tenderness , sympathy

   Antonyms:

   unkindness , inhumanity

4. the humanities,

   1. the study of classical languages and classical literature.

   2. the Latin and Greek classics as a field of study.

   3. literature, philosophy, art, etc., as distinguished from the natural sciences.

   4. the study of literature, philosophy, art, etc.

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humanity British  

/ hjuːˈmænɪtɪ /

noun

1. the human race

2. the quality of being human

3. kindness or mercy

4. (plural) the study of literature, philosophy, and the arts

5. the study of Ancient Greek and Roman language, literature, etc

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Other Word Forms

• antihumanity noun
• overhumanity noun

Etymology

Origin of humanity

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English humanite, from Latin hūmānitās; equivalent to human + -ity

Example Sentences

The ICC, which prosecutes individuals for war crimes and crimes against humanity, is suffering arguably the most difficult period in its 23-year history.

From Barron's

Any study of wars, poverty and other manmade crises shows us that humanity still suffers from a lack of empathy, not a surfeit.

From Salon

It offered a glimpse of humanity behind the prison walls.

From Salon

"His Royal Highness was moved by the courage shown by the children and their families and by the dedication of the team who are supporting them with such professionalism and humanity."

From BBC

"It's the humanity of the characters that gives theatre the possibility of being great art."

From BBC

Related Words

• compassion
• empathy
• friendship
• generosity
• goodness
• goodwill
• kindness