Word

humanitarian

noun C1

UK /hjʊˌmæ.nɪˈtɛː.ɹɪ.ən/

US /hjuˌmæ.nəˈtɛ.ɹi.ən/

Meanings

noun

a person who works to help people in need, especially during emergencies or conflict

adjective

intended to improve people’s welfare and reduce suffering

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Definition

A humanitarian is a person who works to reduce suffering and improve people’s living conditions, especially in crises.

A humanitarian is someone committed to helping people in need, often by providing aid, protection, or essential services. Humanitarians may work for NGOs, the UN, or local organizations, especially during wars, disasters, or major emergencies. The word can also describe actions and policies that are focused on human welfare and dignity.

Examples

The humanitarian coordinated deliveries so remote villages received clean water within days.
She became a humanitarian after volunteering in a refugee camp and seeing how quickly needs escalate.
As a humanitarian, he insisted that aid be distributed impartially, regardless of politics.
They praised the organization’s humanitarian response, which prioritized shelter and family reunification.
The documentary follows a humanitarian who negotiates access to communities cut off by flooding.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse humanitarian with humanistic; humanitarian focuses on practical help and welfare, not literature or philosophy.