Humankind: meaning, definitions and examples

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humankind

 

[ ˈhjuː.mənˌkaɪnd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

noun

The human race; human beings collectively.

Synonyms

humanity, mankind, people.

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Word Description / Examples
humankind

Use this word when referring to all human beings collectively, often in a more formal or scientific context. It is gender-neutral and emphasizes the unity of all human beings.

  • Humankind has made incredible advancements in technology over the past century.
  • Climate change poses a serious threat to the future of humankind.
humanity

This word is often used to emphasize the human race as a whole, particularly when talking about human qualities, kindness, or the experience of being human. It can also refer to compassionate behavior.

  • In times of crisis, the true humanity of people shines through.
  • The artist captured the essence of humanity in his paintings.
mankind

This word is traditionally used to refer to all human beings collectively, similar to 'humankind'. However, it is becoming less common due to its gendered nature, and some may consider it outdated.

  • The moon landing was a significant achievement for mankind.
  • Mankind has always been fascinated by the stars.
people

This is a general, everyday term used to refer to human beings, either collectively or in a more specific sense. It is versatile and widely used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • There are many people at the park today.
  • People need to work together to solve global issues.

Examples of usage

  • Humankind has made remarkable advancements in technology.
  • Respect for humankind is essential for a peaceful society.
  • Despite our differences, we are all part of humankind.

Translations

Translations of the word "humankind" in other languages:

🇵🇹 humanidade

🇮🇳 मानवता

🇩🇪 Menschheit

🇮🇩 umat manusia

🇺🇦 людство

🇵🇱 ludzkość

🇯🇵 人類 (じんるい)

🇫🇷 humanité

🇪🇸 humanidad

🇹🇷 insanlık

🇰🇷 인류 (inryu)

🇸🇦 الإنسانية

🇨🇿 lidstvo

🇸🇰 ľudstvo

🇨🇳 人类 (rénlèi)

🇸🇮 človeštvo

🇮🇸 mannkynið

🇰🇿 адамзат

🇬🇪 ადამიანობა

🇦🇿 bəşəriyyət

🇲🇽 humanidad

Etymology

The term 'humankind' originated in the mid-18th century as a gender-neutral alternative to 'mankind'. It reflects a more inclusive approach to referring to the human race, emphasizing the common humanity shared by all individuals. The word has since gained popularity in modern usage, promoting equality and unity among people of all backgrounds.

See also: dehumanise, dehumanising, dehumanization, dehumanize, dehumanizing, humanitarian, humanitarians, humanity, humanization, humanize, humanizing, humans, inhuman, inhumanity, metahuman, subhuman, superhuman.