human rights

American  

[hyoo-muhn rahyts, yoo‑] / ˈhyu mən ˈraɪts, ˈyu‑ /

plural noun

1. fundamental rights, especially those believed to belong to an individual and in whose exercise a government may not interfere, as the rights to speak, associate, work, etc.

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human rights British  

plural noun

1. the rights of individuals to liberty, justice, etc

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human rights Cultural  

1. Freedom from arbitrary interference or restriction by governments. The term encompasses largely the same rights called civil liberties or civil rights but often suggests rights that have not been recognized.

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Political leaders in the United States often use the expression when speaking of rights violated by other nations.

Etymology

Origin of human rights

First recorded in 1785–95

Example Sentences

BYD says it stopped working with its contractor for the Brazil factory and that it has zero tolerance for violations of human rights and labor laws across its operations.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

Tusk, speaking through an interpreter, said the UK and Poland's "shared values", including rule of law and human rights, provided the "foundation of the treaty".

From BBC • May 27, 2026

Critics of Tuesday's action in congress say it puts human rights at risk.

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

A British national has been detained in Dubai "without explanation, meaningful legal access or private communication with his family" for more than seven months, a human rights group has said.

From BBC • May 26, 2026

It was one of the great human rights victories in U.S. history.

From "Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice" by Phillip Hoose

Related Words

• civil rights