What does human mean?
Human describes anything belonging to or characteristic of people. It can refer to the biological species, as in human life, to qualities associated with people such as intelligence and emotion, or to the limits of human understanding and endurance. As a noun, a human is a person, often used when distinguishing people from animals, machines, or other beings. The word is common in both formal and informal contexts and appears in widely established expressions including human rights, human nature, human error, and human being. Its meanings can range from neutral and factual to morally suggestive: human behaviour may describe ordinary conduct, while human weakness or human suffering highlights vulnerability and moral responsibility. The term is also used in broader discussions of rights, responsibility, evolution, and the relationship between people and the natural world.
Relating to or characteristic of people, especially as opposed to animals, machines, or artificial systems.
"The report emphasises the importance of protecting human dignity."
Human can also emphasize qualities or limitations associated with people, such as humanity, emotion, error, or vulnerability.
A person or member of the human species.
"The team included scientists, engineers, and other humans from many backgrounds."
Usually plural in general statements about people as a species; singular use can sound formal or be used for contrast with animals or machines.
The plural humans is standard when referring to members of the species collectively or to people in general.
"Humans have transformed many ecosystems through agriculture and industry."
The word human comes through Latin humanus, which is closely related to homo, the Latin word for a human being.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does human come from?
The English word entered through Latin humanus, an adjective associated with homo, the Latin word for a human being. The Latin form developed from earlier Indo-European roots associated with “earth” or “ground,” a connection reflected in related forms in languages such as Greek. Modern English inherited both the adjective and noun uses, with human expanding beyond its ancient sense of earthly or mortal to include people broadly.
Related word forms
How human is actually used
As an adjective, human is often contrasted with animal, machine, or artificial. It can also emphasize ordinary human weakness, limitations, or emotions. The noun is standard in both formal and informal English.
Easily confused with human
Human means relating to people, while humane means showing compassion and care toward animals or people in distress.