humanitarian

1 of 2

noun (1)

hu·​man·​i·​tar·​i·​an hyü-ˌma-nə-ˈter-ē-ən 

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

hyü-ˌma-nə-ˈter-ē-ə-ˌni-zəm 

yü-

noun

humanitarianism

2 of 2

noun (2)

hu·​man·​i·​tar·​i·​an·​ism -ēəˌnizəm 

plural -s

: concern for human welfare especially as expressed through philanthropic activities and interest in social reforms : the practice or display of humanitarian principles

extended their humanitarianism to include the Indian tribes

—H. M. Hyman

Examples of humanitarian in a Sentence

Noun (1)

She has been recognized as a great humanitarian for her efforts to end world hunger.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

According to Jose Andres, famous chef and humanitarian, a Kansas City hot dog is better than the overstuffed Arizona Sonoran hot dog, but not as good as the cream cheese dog from Seattle. — Katelyn Umholtz, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2026

Today, she is known for her work as a humanitarian, directing films that address themes like mental health, identity, fame, and intergenerational trauma. — Parents, 24 June 2026

Two Angelenos also received the humanitarian of the year award. — Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 16 June 2026

Jolie is a longtime humanitarian, having worked with various organizations for an array of causes over the years. — Nicholas Rice, PEOPLE, 7 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1843, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing humanitarian

• anti-humanitarian

Rhymes for humanitarian

• antiquarian
• libertarian
• millenarian
• nonsectarian
• proletarian
• sanitarian
• trinitarian
• unitarian
• vegetarian
• veterinarian
• agrarian
• aquarian

Kids Definition

humanitarian

noun

hu·​man·​i·​tar·​i·​an hyü-ˌman-ə-ˈter-ē-ən 

yü-

: a person devoted to or working for the health and happiness of other people

humanitarian adjective

humanitarianism

-ē-ə-ˌniz-əm 

noun