human
English meaning: Human
Definition
A human being, whether man, woman or child.
Example
“Humans share common ancestors with other apes.”
Another example: “To make mistakes is only human.”
Usage — When, Where & How
A common, neutral noun and adjective for a member of the species Homo sapiens, and, as an adjective, relating to people ('human nature', 'human rights'). Often contrasted with animals, machines or the divine. Used across everyday, scientific and ethical contexts.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From Latin 'humanus' (of man, humane), related to 'homo' (man); entered English via Old French in the 14th century.
Synonyms
- frail
- soul
- weak
- individual
- fallible
- mortal
- man
- anthropomorphic
- imperfect
- hominid
Antonyms / Opposites
Related Words
Common Collocations
- human being
- human rights
- human nature
- human error
- human body
- only human
Word Forms
human (n & adj); humans (pl); humanity (n); humane (adj)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
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Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B