human capital

American  

noun

1. the collective skills, knowledge, or other intangible assets of individuals that can be used to create economic value for the individuals, their employers, or their community.

   Education is an investment in human capital that pays off in terms of higher productivity.

---

human capital British  

noun

1. economics the abilities and skills of any individual, esp those acquired through investment in education and training, that enhance potential income earning

---

Etymology

Origin of human capital

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

Ceding control of the air, through poor procurement choices and insufficient investment in human capital, would be a strategic failure.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

"We have some of the best human capital anywhere in the world. We just need to sharpen it with more training," Ruto added.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

Of all the fronts in the AI wars—funding, electricity, chips—the messiest is the fight for human capital.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 25, 2026

The U.S. has deep advantages—in human capital, legal institutions, financial markets, and a culture of innovation—that are difficult to replicate elsewhere.

From Barron's • Jan. 23, 2026

The reason is that upward mobility requires what sociologists describe as the twin pillars of success: human capital and social capital.

From "Class Matters" by The New York Times