as in generosity
concern for human welfare (as shown through philanthropic activities)
The humanism of the couple was revealed when they welcomed those displaced by the fire into their home.
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
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 humanism
Louis Black [Editor and publisher, The Austin Chronicle; cofounder, South by Southwest]: The Butthole Surfers never lost sight of their humanism.
—
Pat Blashill, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2025
Ashby’s influence lives on — in the patient realism of Kelly Reichardt, in the humanism of Alexander Payne, in the quiet despair of Noah Baumbach.
—Arkansas Online, 24 July 2025
Though never geographically central, Europe shaped the world through ideas, values and science—from Renaissance humanism to the theory of relativity.
—Markus Pflitsch, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
His protagonists assert a lonely humanism, before power sweeps them away.
—Literary Hub, 16 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for humanism
Pat Blashill, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2025
Ashby’s influence lives on — in the patient realism of Kelly Reichardt, in the humanism of Alexander Payne, in the quiet despair of Noah Baumbach.
—Arkansas Online, 24 July 2025
Though never geographically central, Europe shaped the world through ideas, values and science—from Renaissance humanism to the theory of relativity.
—Markus Pflitsch, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
His protagonists assert a lonely humanism, before power sweeps them away.
—Literary Hub, 16 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for humanism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for humanism
Noun
-
The Brown family is among the wealthiest families in the country, and its generosity over generations has left an undeniable mark on Louisville.—
Maggie Menderski,
Louisville Courier Journal,
26 Oct. 2025
-
Still, Kozlin says she was overwhelmed by Evelyn’s generosity.—
Jordan Greene,
PEOPLE,
24 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
Those who predicted a doomed future for all of humanity called us addicts and criminals, leeches and slime (and way worse things) because we were detested, shouted at, dragged by our arms across bedrooms and public sporting events.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
28 Oct. 2025
-
The humanities program will work with the arts board's Folk & Traditional Arts Apprenticeship program to train master and apprentice Wisconsin folk artists in planning and producing public programs that showcase and contextualize cultural traditions, stories and histories.—
Jim Higgins,
jsonline.com,
27 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
Boundaries, compassion and emotional clarity are your lifelong teachers.—
Valerie Mesa,
PEOPLE,
27 Oct. 2025
-
Unlike a host of seedy managers looking to make a quick buck, Landau had real care and compassion for Springsteen.—
Jake Kring-Schreifels,
Time,
24 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
His legacy continues to inspire others to lead with kindness, purpose, and authenticity.—
Luke Chinman,
PEOPLE,
28 Oct. 2025
-
Found in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Wilbur is described as quirky and in need of patience, stability, and someone willing to earn his trust with treats and kindness.—
Real-Time News team,
Miami Herald,
27 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
The third-highest goal scorer in the club’s history had his heart set on chasing down more records and winning another Golden Boot.—
James Pearce,
New York Times,
23 Oct. 2025
-
My heart doesn't feel okay with it.—
Liza Esquibias,
PEOPLE,
23 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
The protests were inspired by concerns of humanitarianism and justice.—
Hussein Ibish,
The Atlantic,
7 Oct. 2025
-
Her openness to new experiences, understanding people, and commitment to humanitarianism, as well as her chill demeanor, make Dawn an Aquarius.—
Lisa Stardust,
People.com,
18 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Humanism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/humanism. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share