litterae humaniores

[ lit-uh-ree hyoo-man-ee-awr-eez, -ohr-eez ]

plural noun

1. the humanities as a field of study.

Word History and Origins

Origin of litterae humaniores¹

First recorded in 1740–50, litterae humaniores is from Medieval Latin litterae hūmāniōrēs literally, “more humane letters”

Example Sentences

As showing a hopeful tendency to recognize the greatness of these thinkers of the Middle Ages it is interesting to note that about five years ago one of St. Thomas's great works—the Summa Contra Gentiles—was placed on the list of subjects which a candidate may at his option offer in the final honor school of the litterae humaniores at Oxford.

From Project Gutenberg

The promoters of this movement are called humanists, because they held that the study of the classics, or litterae humaniores, is the best humanizing agent.

From Project Gutenberg

Bibles occupied the first division, and the Fathers the second: but it should seem that equal importance was attached to the works of Heretics as to those called Litterae Humaniores--for each had a division of equal magnitude.

From Project Gutenberg

"And here am I, a 'first' in 'Litterae Humaniores,' selling my waistcoat that I may eat," said I. Being come to the gate of the yard, I paused.

From Project Gutenberg