Humanity

Definition

Humanity refers to the human race; human beings collectively, and also the quality of being humane; benevolence.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hjuˈmænɪti/
• Respelling: hyoo-MAN-ih-tee (with "hyoo" as in "hue," "MAN" as in "man," "ih" as in "sit," and "tee" as in "tea")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hjuːˈmænɪti/
• Respelling: hyoo-MAN-i-tee (with "hyoo" as in "hue," "MAN" as in "man," "i" as in "sit," and "tee" as in "tea")

In both dialects, "humanity" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "MAN." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "hyoo-MAN-ih-tee" or "hyoo-MAN-i-tee."

Etymology

The term "humanity" is derived from the Old French "humanité", from Latin "humanitas" for "human nature, kindness", from "humanus" meaning "human".

Derivatives

• Humanitarian (adjective, noun)
• Humanize (verb)
• Humankind (noun)
• Humanist (noun)
• Humanistic (adjective)

Synonyms

• Humankind
• Mankind
• Compassion

Antonyms

• Cruelty
• Inhumanity
• Barbarism

Usage

The term "humanity" is often used to refer to the collective human race or the condition of being human. It can also refer to the qualities that characterize humans, particularly compassion, empathy, and benevolence.

Related Terms

• Civilization
• Society
• People
• Benevolence
• Morality

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The Human Race: All human beings collectively; the quality of being human.
  • Example: Advances in technology have significant impacts on all of humanity.

• Humane Qualities: The quality of being compassionate, kind, and sympathetic.
  • Example: Her acts of charity reflected her deep sense of humanity.

• Study of Human Culture: The humanities; academic disciplines that study aspects of human society and culture.
  • Example: She decided to pursue a degree in the humanities, focusing on literature and history.

Note: "Humanity" is a multifaceted term that refers not just to the collective body of human beings, but also to the intrinsic qualities that define us, such as compassion, benevolence, and morality. This dual connotation underscores the interconnectedness of individual identity and collective responsibility.