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Definition of humanitarianism

humanitarianism

/hjuːˌmænɪˈtɛəriənɪzəm/
hu · man · i · tar · i · an · ism

Adjective:humanitarian
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humanitarianism Lexical Profile

humanitarianism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The moral doctrine or active practice of promoting human welfare, saving lives, and alleviating suffering, typically through organized philanthropy and social reform.

Example

"Her lifelong commitment to humanitarianism inspired the foundation of several international disaster relief clinics."


2

The theological doctrine that Jesus Christ's nature was entirely human and not divine.

Example

"Nineteenth-century theological debates frequently contrasted traditional Trinitarian orthodoxy with early forms of humanitarianism."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for humanitarianism

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 19th century from 'humanitarian' and the suffix '-ism'. Originally used in theology for the doctrine that Jesus was purely human rather than divine, it quickly evolved to denote the secular ethic of promoting human welfare.

Cite this Entry


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