Definitions

humane

[hyoo-meyn, yoo-] / hyuˈmeɪn, yu- /

ADJECTIVE

kind, compassionate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

approachable benevolent considerate cordial democratic forgiving friendly generous gentle gracious humanitarian merciful open-minded sympathetic tolerant unselfish

WEAK

accommodating altruistic amiable benign benignant broad-minded charitable clement forbearing genial good good-natured helpful human indulgent kindhearted kindly lenient liberal magnanimous mild natural obliging philanthropic pitying righteous tender tenderhearted understanding warmhearted

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aloof cold cool disagreeable greedy mean merciless selfish unfeeling unfriendly ungiving unkind unsociable

WEAK

cruel fierce inhumane uncivilized uncompassionate unsympathetic violent

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.

A new study has provided the first comprehensive estimate of koala numbers in the region and identified a humane, cost effective strategy to keep the population at sustainable levels.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

She has argued for humane treatment of L.A.’s homeless population and pushed for a ramp-up in hiring at the Los Angeles Police Department.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

A humane technological order requires a robust civil society: universities, localities, entrepreneurs, churches, professional associations and especially families capable of exercising moral responsibility and cultivating virtue.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

Moscatelli tries to humanize the capybaras so that real humans become more humane.

From Slate • May 27, 2026

Emma got the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals involved, and they had a contest to see who could invent the most humane but effective trap.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman

Vocabulary lists containing humane

100 SAT Words Beginning with "H"

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Bet" by Anton Chekhov

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The Stranger

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!