human capital

noun

: the skills, knowledge, and qualifications of a person, group, or workforce considered as economic assets

Nothing is more important to a company, nation, or individual than intelligence. It is the fundamental key to problem-solving and wealth creation, and underpins the human capital that drives every company and nation forward.

—Peter H. Diamandis

In fact, the evidence suggests that public investments in human capital, including higher education, yield long-term economic rates of return that far exceed most standard investments in technology or capital.

—Edward L. Glaeser

All of this coincided with the emergence in academe of the idea of "human capital": the notion that the more skilled the work force, the more productive it tends to be.

—Denis P. Doyle et al.

Examples of human capital in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

After all, human capital remains the most important asset for any successful hotel. —Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 25 Nov. 2025

Boston offers world-class human capital, clinical infrastructure, regulatory expertise, and market access. —Benjamin Sharoni, Boston Herald, 24 Nov. 2025

Right now, there are no equally strict requirements for human capital. —Ben Zweig, Fortune, 21 Nov. 2025

By investing in foundational learning today, Africa builds the human capital that will sustain its progress for generations. —Obiageli Ezekwesili, semafor.com, 3 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for human capital

• capitol
• noncapital