Inhumane

/ɪnˈhjuːmeɪn/ adjective

Definition

Extremely cruel or lacking compassion; not treating people or animals with kindness and dignity.

Etymology

From the prefix 'in-' (not) combined with 'humane' (from Latin 'humanus' meaning 'human'). The word literally means 'not showing human compassion,' implying cruelty is the opposite of our nature.

Kelly Says

By calling something 'inhumane,' we're saying it violates what we believe humans fundamentally are—this is why the word packs such moral force, because it's really saying 'this isn't how humans should behave.'

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.