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.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of human capital

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

The engine of most modern companies is driven by human capital.

From MarketWatch

Capital markets were modernized through improved data access and standardized capital classifications — but human capital practices never underwent a comparable data revolution, and it can start now.

From MarketWatch

Technology, services and human capital long ago displaced agriculture and raw materials as the drivers of American wealth.

From The Wall Street Journal

“This is a grab for technology and human capital, and the deal makes sense,” said Nancy Tengler, CEO at Laffer Tengler Investments.

From Barron's

Mr. Smith is a professor of practice and faculty director of the Human Capital Development Lab at Johns Hopkins University.

From The Wall Street Journal