Definition of humane

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hu·mane    (hy-mn) KEY  

ADJECTIVE:

1. Characterized by kindness, mercy, or compassion: a humane judge.
2. Marked by an emphasis on humanistic values and concerns: a humane education.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English humain, human ; see human

OTHER FORMS:
hu·manely (Adverb), hu·maneness (Noun)

SYNONYMS:
humane , compassionate , humanitarian , merciful

These adjectives mean marked or motivated by concern with the alleviation of suffering: a humane physician; compassionate toward impoverished people; released the prisoner for humanitarian reasons; is merciful to the repentant.

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