1
: of, relating to, or affecting people
the human body
the human brain
human suffering
problems that have occurred throughout human history
The accident was blamed on human error. [=the accident was blamed on a person's mistake rather than on the failure of a machine]
a story that has human interest = a human-interest story [=a story that is appealing because it involves the experiences of real people]
The need to be loved is simply part of the human condition. [=part of being a person]
an area where ancient human remains [=parts of the bodies of dead people] have been found
2
a
: typical of people
a human failing/weakness
human kindness
human emotions
His desire for revenge was very human. [=was very typical of the way people are]
b
: having good or bad qualities that people usually have
She is a very kind and human person.
I once thought that he was perfect, but now I know that he's all too human. [=that he has the same problems, weaknesses, etc., that other people have]
Note: If you say that someone is only human, you are saying that the mistakes someone has made could have been made by anyone.
c
: looking or acting like a person
The dog's expression was almost human.
3
always used before a noun
: made up of or consisting of people
The assembly line was a human machine.
Everyone held hands and formed a human chain.
plural humans
: a person
—usually plural
a disease that affects both humans and animals
Cite this Entry
“Human.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/human. Accessed 5 Nov. 2026.
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