humanitarian

American  

[hyoo-man-i-tair-ee-uhn, yoo-] / hyuˌmæn ɪˈtɛər i ən, yu- /

adjective

1. having concern for or helping to improve the welfare and happiness of people.

2. of or relating to ethical or theological humanitarianism.

3. pertaining to the saving of human lives or to the alleviation of suffering.

   a humanitarian crisis.

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noun

1. a person actively engaged in promoting human welfare and social reforms, as a philanthropist.

2. a person who professes ethical or theological humanitarianism.

humanitarian British  

/ hjuːˌmænɪˈtɛərɪən /

adjective

1. having the interests of mankind at heart

2. of or relating to ethical or theological humanitarianism

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noun

1. a philanthropist

2. an adherent of humanitarianism

Other Word Forms

• antihumanitarian adjective
• semihumanitarian adjective
• unhumanitarian adjective

Etymology

Origin of humanitarian

First recorded in 1810–20; humanit(y) + -arian

Example Sentences

Shatner played the daring Captain James T. Kirk in 1960s sci-fi adventure franchise "Star Trek," which follows the crew of a spaceship as it spreads liberal humanitarian ideals through the galaxy.

From Barron's

"Most important of all we need global action and pressure in pursuit of a ceasefire, and essential humanitarian access with support for survivors," she said.

From BBC

However, Ferrer thinks the most vulnerable Cubans need humanitarian aid -- such as food, medicine, and everyday necessities -- to survive this critical phase.

From Barron's

Countries involved in the board plan to pledge billions of dollars to rebuild the enclave, with funding allocated for reconstruction, humanitarian assistance, and standing up an international security force to oversee a lasting peace deal.

From The Wall Street Journal

I think this’ll be the start of my humanitarian path where I can do something to help keep kids off the streets.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• altruistic
• charitable
• humane
• philanthropic