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Definition of inhumane

inhumane

/ˌɪn.hjuːˈmeɪn/
in · hu · mane
Adverb:inhumanely
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inhumane Lexical Profile

inhumane Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Without compassion for misery or suffering; cruel and pitiless.

Example

"The organization campaigned to end the inhumane treatment of farm animals."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for inhumane
Antonyms
View all antonyms for inhumane

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'inhumane' with 'inhuman'. 'Inhumane' specifically refers to a lack of compassion or kindness toward suffering (often regarding the treatment of prisoners or animals), whereas 'inhuman' means either not biologically human or monstrously savage beyond normal human nature.

• Rhymes for inhumane

• Nearby Words

inhospitably
inhospitality
inhuman
inhumane
inhumanely
inhumanity
inhumanly

Word Origin & Etymology

Emerged in the 15th century as an alternative spelling of 'inhuman', from Latin 'inhumanus' ('savage, uncivilized'). By the early 18th century, the spelling 'inhumane' diverged to specifically denote the opposite of 'humane' (lacking mercy or compassion).

Cite this Entry

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