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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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

The humanitarian sector has spent decades solving some of the hardest operational problems on Earth. — Jeannie Annan, Fortune, 2 Oct. 2026 But other regional analysts warned against reading too much into the humanitarian gesture. — Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 1 Oct. 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

This gift is a big swing from one of the country’s most influential business leaders and philanthropists.

— Susan Svrluga, Washington Post, 30 Sep. 2026
The annual prize was created in 1980 by Swedish-German philanthropist Jakob von Uexkull, who wanted to honor work that contributes to a more just and peaceful world.

— ABC News, ABC News, 30 Sep. 2026

Definition of philanthropist

Adjective

To George, there are benevolent choices that businessmen owe to those who their work touches.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 Oct. 2026
With new ownership, the Lakers’ braintrust no longer has the protection of the benevolent Buss family or the baseball-centric Mark Walter.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026

Definition of benevolent

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“Humanitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/humanitarian. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of humanitarian

adjective

noun

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