humanitarian

noun

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

Examples of humanitarian in a Sentence

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.
In Sudan and South Sudan, which broke away and gained independence in 2011, humanitarians are ready to turn funding to aid, Hyslop said. Chris Boccia, ABC News, 22 July 2025 Within it, Charles stressed that the work that humanitarians do around the world knows no boundaries, irrespective of religion, background, or faith. Simon Perry, People.com, 17 Apr. 2025 Burrell was also a true humanitarian, Reeves said, freely giving his time, skills and resources to anyone in need. Katie Langford, Denver Post, 17 June 2025 There are three categories of humanitarians right now. Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 2 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for humanitarian

Word History

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of humanitarian was in 1843

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Cite this Entry

“Humanitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/humanitarian. Accessed 22 Aug. 2025.

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 noun

More from Merriam-Webster on humanitarian

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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