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REFERENCE

humanity

n.
US //hjuˈmænɪti// UK //hjuːmˈænɪti// hu·man·i·ty
  1. 1 humankind (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    all people in the world as a single group.

    the human race or species considered collectively. Uncountable in this sense.

    Example

    The future of humanity depends on how we treat our planet today.

    Example

    The philosopher argued that the survival of humanity requires a fundamental shift in how we perceive our relationship with the natural world.
  2. 2 kindness (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the quality of being kind, caring, and sympathetic toward others.

    the quality of being benevolent or showing compassion toward others. Often used to describe ethical behaviour in difficult situations.

    Example

    The doctor treated all his patients with great humanity and respect.

    Example

    Even in the midst of the conflict, there were remarkable acts of humanity that transcended political divisions.
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  1. 3 human nature (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    the state or quality of being a human being.

    the condition or essential nature of being human, including both strengths and flaws.

    Example

    The book explores the dark side of humanity through its complex characters.

    Example

    The play examines the fragility of our common humanity when faced with extreme isolation and fear.
  2. 4 academic subjects (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    subjects of study that focus on human culture, such as history, literature, and philosophy.

    the branches of learning concerned with human culture; usually used in the plural form 'the humanities'.

    Example

    She decided to study the humanities because she loved reading and history.

    Example

    The university is increasing its funding for the humanities to encourage more students to engage with classical literature and ethics.

    Usage

    Almost always used in the plural form 'the humanities' when referring to academic departments.
Origin

Inherited from Middle English humanyte, humanite, humanitye. By surface analysis, human or humane + -ity. Partly displaced mankind, from Old English mancynn (literally “human race”).

Word family

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