humanism

noun

Definition of humanismnext
as in generosity
concern for human welfare (as shown through philanthropic activities) The humanism of the couple was revealed when they welcomed those displaced by the fire into their home.

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of humanism The 63-year-old auteur, winner of the Cannes Palme d’Or in 2018 for Shoplifters, has made his indelible imprint on world cinema with delicate family drama, suffused with wry humor and wrenching humanism, far more so than futurism. — Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 15 May 2026 But, in designing hospitals, another aspect of humanism is played out, Piano says — beauty. — Dr. Tal Patalon, Forbes.com, 1 May 2026 What good is his determined humanism in the face of the great humming machine of bureaucracy? — Becca Rothfeld, New Yorker, 27 Apr. 2026 Hungary has chosen hope over fear, freedom over submission, humanism over anti-humanism. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 13 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for humanism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for humanism
  1. generosity
  2. humanity
  3. compassion
  4. kindness
  5. heart
  6. humanitarianism
Noun
  • In addition to his prolific acting and comedy career, Williams also became known for his generosity with fans and friends alike.
    — Kate Hogan, PEOPLE, 11 Aug. 2026
  • My read of it is that Helaena sees some kind of generosity by Mysaria.
    — Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of generosity
Noun
  • The first tool for humanity that was forged by Tools for Humanity, in 2019, was a cryptocurrency called Worldcoin.
    — Jill Lepore, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026
  • For the first time in the history of humanity, Shiva the Adiyogi introduced the idea that the simple laws of nature are not permanent restrictions.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of humanity
Noun
  • Coming-of-age films with variations of these characters and dynamics come around pretty often; rather more unusual are those written and played with this degree of care and compassion.
    — Guy Lodge, Variety, 12 Aug. 2026
  • The art of subtlety and nuance and true compassion and care for real-life people and real relationships is not a performance.
    — Matt Brennan, Los Angeles Times, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of compassion
Noun
  • Jorge will be remembered for his quiet strength, kindness and unwavering devotion to his family.
    — Avi Creditor, New York Times, 9 Aug. 2026
  • Jessica Meyer, clinical manager of the clinic, said she was already struck by Martewicz’s kindness.
    — Janice Neumann, Chicago Tribune, 6 Aug. 2026
Definition of kindness
Noun
  • Things get increasingly bleak, as the family dog’s heart medicine runs out and Jason has to put him out of his misery, and then — in doomsday prepper mode — carves up the body and puts it in the freezer just in case food gets dire.
    — William Earl, Variety, 8 Aug. 2026
  • He was rushed to Luton and Dunstable Hospital, where doctors restarted his heart before transferring him to the Royal Brompton Hospital in London for specialist care.
    — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 8 Aug. 2026
Definition of heart
Noun
  • Meanwhile, the very vocabulary of humanitarianism and antiracism has become so selectively applied or debased as to be meaningless.
    — Simon Sebag Montefiore, The Atlantic, 28 June 2026
  • Ono has also made her mark as a peace activist, and her humanitarianism runs throughout her oeuvre.
    — Julie L. Belcove, Architectural Digest, 12 June 2026
Definition of humanitarianism

Browse Nearby Words

humaneness
humanism
humanitarian
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Cite this Entry

“Humanism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/humanism. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on humanism

Nglish: Translation of humanism for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about humanism

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