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.

"This is a matter we take very, ‌very seriously. It's a matter of humane treatment of civilians, and I can assure you that ⁠we are acting with ⁠absolute urgency," she told reporters.

From BBC • May 20, 2026

He even came across more humane jailers who said they were "sorry" about what was happening and that one day "Russia will apologise".

From Barron's • May 8, 2026

In an interview with The Times, Kiley said his vote was about common sense and being humane.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

It made our technological world accessible, inclusive, and humane.

From Slate • Apr. 4, 2026

Pickwick said that the German doctor in charge of the prison hospital was a humane man who occasionally arranged a medical discharge.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

Vocabulary lists containing humane

100 SAT Words Beginning with "H"

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"The Bet" by Anton Chekhov

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The Stranger

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