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Definition of dehumanize

dehumanize

/diːˈhjuːmənaɪz/
(UK: dehumanise)
de · hu · man · ize
Adjective:dehumanizing
•
Past Simple:dehumanized
•
Past Participle:dehumanized
•
Present Participle:dehumanizing
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dehumanize Lexical Profile

dehumanize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To deprive someone of positive human qualities, dignity, or individuality, or to treat a person or group as less than human.

Example

"Sociologists study how propaganda is used to dehumanize marginalized communities and justify mistreatment."

2

To make a process, environment, or institution impersonal, mechanical, or devoid of human warmth and compassion.

Example

"Critics argued that excessive reliance on automated metrics would dehumanize the workplace."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for dehumanize

• Nearby Words

degreed
degu
dehumanization
dehumanize
dehumanizing
dehumidification
dehumidifier

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 19th century, formed in English from the privative prefix 'de-' and 'humanize', ultimately tracing back to the Latin 'humanus' (human, humane).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Dehumanize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/dehumanize
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