humanitarian meaning

humanitarian as an adjective

1. marked by humanistic values and devotion to human welfare
   • a humane physician
   • released the prisoner for humanitarian reasons
   • respect and humanistic regard for all members of our species

   Synonyms: human-centered, human-centred, humanist, humanistic

   Similar: humane

2. of or relating to or characteristic of humanitarianism
   • humanitarian aid

   Related forms: humanity, humanitarianism

humanitarian as a noun

1. someone devoted to the promotion of human welfare and to social reforms

   Synonyms: do-gooder, improver

   Type of: benefactor

2. an advocate of the principles of humanism; someone concerned with the interests and welfare of humans

   Synonyms: humanist

   Type of: advocate

   Related forms: humanitarianism

How to pronounce humanitarian

humanitarian is pronounced /ˌhjuːmænɪˈtɛərɪən/ in British English and /ˌhjuˌmænəˈtɛriən/ in American English. It has 6 syllables, with the stress on the fourth syllable.

Words that rhyme with humanitarian

• barbarian
• librarian
• seminarian
• utilitarian
• totalitarian
• authoritarian
• carrion
• clarion
• ovarian
• agrarian
• planarian
• sectarian
• contrarian
• vegetarian
• centenarian
• egalitarian
• libertarian
• proletarian
• nonsectarian
• octogenarian
• veterinarian
• disciplinarian
• septuagenarian
• parliamentarian