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Synonyms

humanitarianism

American  
[hyoo-man-i-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhm, yoo-] / hjuˌmæn ɪˈtɛər i əˌnɪz əm, ju- /

noun

  1. humanitarian principles or practices.

  2. Ethics.

    1. the doctrine that humanity's obligations are concerned wholly with the welfare of the human race.

    2. the doctrine that humankind may become perfect without divine aid.

  3. Theology. the doctrine that Jesus Christ possessed a human nature only.


humanitarianism British  
/ hjuːˌmænɪˈtɛərɪəˌnɪzəm /

noun

  1. humanitarian principles

  2. ethics

    1. the doctrine that man's duty is to strive to promote the welfare of mankind

    2. the doctrine that man can achieve perfection through his own resources

  3. theol the belief that Jesus Christ was only a mortal man

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of humanitarianism

First recorded in 1825–35; humanitarian + -ism

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

"We're trying to combine security with humanitarianism while saving our border in line with EU law," Mr Duszczyk said.

From BBC ● Apr. 27, 2024

The Chinese ministry spokesman, Wang Wenbin, referring to North Koreans who entered illegally for economic reasons, said China had always handled the issue "properly" according to principles of domestic and international law and humanitarianism.

From Reuters ● Oct. 13, 2023

The Biafran airlift is widely considered a watershed moment in international humanitarianism.

From New York Times ● Jul. 19, 2023

Clemente’s dedication to humanitarianism lives today through his family and the Roberto Clemente Foundation, which delivered food and aid to families in Puerto Rico when Hurricane Fiona ripped through the island earlier this year.

From Seattle Times ● Dec. 26, 2022

Her family’s motto was “sharing and caring,” and even in a community of active citizens, the Winstons distinguished themselves with their tireless service, religious devotion, and humanitarianism.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly

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