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

Goldman didn’t, arguing the U.S. already had legislation to condition arms sales on respect for human rights.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

China is a key economic and political partner of North Korea, which faces sweeping international sanctions as a result of its nuclear weapons programme and alleged human rights violations.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

Investors are voting on proposals for independent reports on Palantir’s human rights impact from its software used by government clients.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

Investors voted down proposals for independent reports on Palantir’s human rights impact from its software used by government clients.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

To the world, I may be Malala, the girl who fought for human rights.

From "Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Changed the World" by Malala Yousafzai

Related Words

• civil rights