VocabDictionary

humanitarian

/hjuːˌmæn.ɪˈter.i.ən/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Concerned with or seeking to promote human welfare; philanthropic.

Example Sentences:
  • The organization provided essential humanitarian aid to the earthquake victims.
  • Governments launched a massive humanitarian effort to assist refugees fleeing the conflict.
2.noun

A person devoted to the promotion of human welfare and social reform; a philanthropist.

Example Sentences:
  • She was a dedicated humanitarian who spent her life fighting poverty and disease.
  • Renowned humanitarians gathered at the international summit to address global hunger.
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English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “humanitarian”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from 'humanist' + the adjectival suffix '-arian', influenced by French 'humanitaire'. It emerged in the 19th century, originally referring to theological views regarding the human nature of Christ, but shifted by the mid-1800s to denote those devoted to the promotion of human welfare and the reduction of suffering.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of humans + tarry (to stay) — someone who stays to help fellow humans in need.

Frequently Asked Questions About “humanitarian

1. What is the meaning of “humanitarian” in English?

In English, humanitarian (adjective) is defined as: “Concerned with or seeking to promote human welfare; philanthropic.”.

2. How do you use “humanitarian” in a sentence?

The organization provided essential humanitarian aid to the earthquake victims.

3. What are English synonyms of “humanitarian”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “humanitarian”?

Derived from 'humanist' + the adjectival suffix '-arian', influenced by French 'humanitaire'. It emerged in the 19th century, originally referring to theological views regarding the human nature of Christ, but shifted by the mid-1800s to denote those devoted to the promotion of human welfare and the reduction of suffering.