dehumanize

especially British, de·hu·man·ise

[dee-hyoo-muh-nahyz, -yoo-]

verb (used with object)

dehumanized, dehumanizing 

1. to regard, represent, or treat (a person or group) as less than human.

   Society still has a tendency to devalue and dehumanize those with disabilities and to suppress their voices.

2. to deprive of human qualities or attributes; divest of individuality.

   Conformity dehumanized him.

dehumanize

/ diːˈhjuːməˌnaɪz /

verb

1. to deprive of human qualities

2. to render mechanical, artificial, or routine

Other Word Forms

• dehumanization noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of dehumanize¹

First recorded in 1810–20; de- + humanize

Example Sentences

At a time when trans and queer people are increasingly targeted by ring-wing politicians and activists through legislation and dehumanizing rhetoric — LGBTQ+-friendly shows such as “Bob’s Burgers” can, for some, feel like a refuge.

From Los Angeles Times

It contributes to an ecosystem of hate that makes it easier for predators to dehumanize and even abuse teens.

From Salon

The remark prompted agreement from his co-hosts on air but quickly went viral online, with critics calling it dehumanizing and dangerous.

From Salon

Mollner and Lawrence keep the story locked on the boys, never elaborating on this desensitizing idea but continuing to show us the dehumanizing torture they endure.

From Los Angeles Times

Levin warned that law enforcement assigned to political events should be on high alert for retaliatory attacks in the near future, given the “dehumanizing” rhetoric some have taken up in the wake of Kirk’s killing.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abase 
• degrade