HUMANITARIAN Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

humanitarian 1 of 2

adjective

Definition of humanitarian

as in philanthropic

having or showing a concern for the welfare of others humanitarian efforts to aid the earthquake victims

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

humanitarian

2 of 2

noun

as in philanthropist

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of humanitarian

Adjective

Dehnhard also helps displaced orphans, organizes humanitarian aid, promotes educational initiatives, and advocates for children. — Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 18 Aug. 2026 The ship traveled from the Mediterranean to the Persian Gulf and then headed to Haiti for a humanitarian trip. — Louisa Moller, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026

Noun

His knowledge and experience on the team was a critical role for the planet's survival and the health of its inhabitants, a true humanitarian. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 3 June 2026 Those actions have generated fierce legal challenges and criticism from humanitarians. — Gregory Royal Pratt, Chicago Tribune, 30 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for humanitarian

Recent Examples of Synonyms for humanitarian

Adjective

Some billionaires have also pledged philanthropic contributions.

— ABC News, ABC News, 22 July 2026
That would have been even a few more million bucks on top of what already looks more like a philanthropic civic act more than a savvy investment on Tullman’s impassioned part, but an enthusiastic punter can dream.

— Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026

Definition of philanthropic

Noun

That venture has the strong backing of Ken Griffin, a local billionaire hedge fund manager and philanthropist.

— Austin Horn, Miami Herald, 22 Aug. 2026
This makes sense, seeing as the philanthropist has vowed to donate most of her money to charity during her lifetime.

— Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 22 Aug. 2026

Definition of philanthropist

Adjective

The goal is to show that philanthropy belongs to them, too — not just the historically wealthier and predominantly white charitable institutions that tend to dominate narratives about philanthropy.

— James Pollard, Fortune, 21 Aug. 2026
Make sure estate documents and beneficiary designations reflect your wishes, including charitable giving.

— Angie O’Leary, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of charitable

Browse Nearby Words

humanism

humanitarian

humanitarianism

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“Humanitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/humanitarian. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of humanitarian

adjective

noun

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