subhuman

[ suhb-hyoo-muhnor, often, -yoo- ]

adjective

1. less than or not quite human.
2. almost human:

   In some respects, the porpoise is subhuman.

subhuman

/ sʌbˈhjuːmən /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or designating animals that are below man ( Homo sapiens ) in evolutionary development
2. less than human

Word History and Origins

Origin of subhuman¹

First recorded in 1785–95; sub- + human

Example Sentences

“After the war, people talked about it with the idea that the Nazis were subhuman monsters,” Max Heppner said.

From New York Times

He has openly expressed his contempt for subhuman vermin from s**thole countries poisoning the blood of our country.

From Salon

He has a clear pattern of referring to Black and brown people, especially immigrants or those with immigrant roots, as "vermin," "snakes" or subhuman "animals."

From Salon

And, of course, their political opponents are "demonic" and subhuman, thereby violence against them is permissible, even desired.

From Salon

This barren world also is inhabited by the beleaguered Fremen, whose eyes have gone blue from long contact with spice and who are considered subhuman by the other planets and their armies.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• heartless