humane society

American  

noun

humane societies plural

1. (often initial capital letter) an organization devoted to promoting humane ideals, especially with reference to the treatment of animals.

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humane society British  

noun

1. an organization for promotion of humane ideals, esp in dealing with animals

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• humane societies
  plural

Etymology

Origin of humane society

First recorded in 1770–80

Example Sentences

A drop of existential awareness may even make us a more humane society.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 16, 2025

The cub was initially treated at Serrano Animal and Bird Hospital in Orange County, before being transferred to the humane society for his long-term rehab.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2025

In all, the African American civil rights movement is among history’s greatest examples of how everyday people can organize against overwhelming odds to resist tyranny and oppression and create a more democratic and humane society.

From Salon • Jan. 18, 2024

Even more, five of the dogs were transported to veterinary hospitals — in ambulances used for people, not in the specialized humane society vans offered on site.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 29, 2023

In a civil and humane society, each man is able to fulfill those obligations according to his own inclinations and abilities.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela