humanities

Cultural  

1. One of the main branches of learning. A scholar of the humanities studies history, literature, the fine arts, and philosophy.

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Explanation

The humanities are studies about human culture, such as literature, philosophy, and history. Studying the humanities gives you general knowledge, but not a practical trade — you probably wouldn’t study humanities at beauty school. If you're studying to be a dentist or a blacksmith, you're learning to be something in particular. Studying the humanities is different. The humanities provide general knowledge about the best accomplishments of human beings throughout history. Learning the works of Shakespeare, Plato, and Beethoven is part of the humanities. The humanities make a person educated, but not necessarily for a specific profession. Most people require a more specific area of study beyond the humanities.

Example Sentences

The tips and tricks I use to avoid being taken in by sloppy A.I.-generated content are the same that have always existed for combating disinformation, and were honed mainly during my humanities degree.

From Slate • Mar. 28, 2026

The union said the move would "significantly reduce" the university's academic offer in the arts and humanities.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

Before that, consciousness studies was relegated to the humanities — philosophers, writers, artists.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

Their work demonstrates how historical accounts can be validated and violent deaths reconstructed in remarkable detail when the humanities and natural sciences collaborate.

From Science Daily • Nov. 14, 2025

I say to Frank, who is sitting up on the catwalk operating the spotlight, “Frank, that baby is smarter than half of my humanities class. Is this how things have always been?”

From "Ask the Passengers" by A.S. King