humanity

[hyoo-man-i-tee, yoo-]

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.

humanity

/ 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

Other Word Forms

• antihumanity noun
• overhumanity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of humanity¹

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

Example Sentences

The call came after Machar - currently under house arrest - was charged with murder, treason and crimes against humanity.

From BBC

Improved sleep quality is something Dr Kaitlyn Regehr, associate prof in digital humanities at University College London, says she would expect the teens to experience after removing digital devices from their rooms.

From BBC

A commanding presence, Skybell isn’t a barnstormer but an Obie-winning actor who illuminates the humanity of whatever role he happens to be playing.

From Los Angeles Times

"This initial support is a small step towards restoring some humanity to the catastrophic situation in Gaza as a result of the Israeli government's actions."

From BBC

"Even in deeply polarised times, we must never lose sight of our humanity and our respect for the sanctity of all human life."

From BBC

Related Words

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