humanitarian

1 of 2

noun (1)

hu·​man·​i·​tar·​i·​an hyü-ˌma-nə-ˈter-ē-ən How to pronounce humanitarian (audio)
yü-
Synonyms of humanitariannext
: a person promoting human welfare and social reform : philanthropist
recognized as a great humanitarian for her work to end world hunger
humanitarian adjective
humanitarianism
hyü-ˌma-nə-ˈter-ē-ə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce humanitarian (audio)
yü-
noun

humanitarianism

2 of 2

noun (2)

hu·​man·​i·​tar·​i·​an·​ism -ēəˌnizəm How to pronounce humanitarianism (audio)
plural -s
: concern for human welfare especially as expressed through philanthropic activities and interest in social reforms : the practice or display of humanitarian principles
extended their humanitarianism to include the Indian tribes—H. M. Hyman

Examples of humanitarian in a Sentence

Noun (1) She has been recognized as a great humanitarian for her efforts to end world hunger.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The chef and humanitarian throws a backyard bash for his family and friends centered around the centuries-old Valencian dish. — José Andrés, Bon Appetit Magazine, 20 May 2026 Two Angelenos also received the humanitarian of the year award. — Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 16 June 2026 His knowledge and experience on the team was a critical role for the planet's survival and the health of its inhabitants, a true humanitarian. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 3 June 2026 Jolie is a longtime humanitarian, having worked with various organizations for an array of causes over the years. — Nicholas Rice, PEOPLE, 7 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for humanitarian

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1843, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of humanitarian was in 1843

Phrases Containing humanitarian

Rhymes for humanitarian

See All Rhymes for humanitarian

Browse Nearby Words

humanistically
humanitarian
humanitarianism
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Humanitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/humanitarian. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

humanitarian

noun
hu·​man·​i·​tar·​i·​an hyü-ˌman-ə-ˈter-ē-ən How to pronounce humanitarian (audio)
yü-
: a person devoted to or working for the health and happiness of other people
humanitarian adjective
humanitarianism
-ē-ə-ˌniz-əm How to pronounce humanitarian (audio)
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on humanitarian

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for humanitarian

Nglish: Translation of humanitarian for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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