human-centredness
|hu-man-cent-red-ness|
🇺🇸
/ˌhjuːmənˈsɛn.tərd.nəs/
🇬🇧
/ˌhjuːmənˈsɛntədnəs/
focus on humans
Etymology
'human-centredness' originates from modern English, specifically formed by combining 'human' + 'centred' + the nominalizing suffix '-ness'.
'human' comes from Latin 'humanus' via Old French 'humain' into Middle English; 'centre' comes from Greek 'kentron' via Latin 'centrum' and Old French 'centre' into Middle English 'centre' (modern English 'center/centre'); the adjective 'centred' is the past participle form of 'centre', and the suffix '-ness' derives from Old English '-nes(s)e' forming abstract nouns.
Initially the elements simply indicated 'the state of being centered on humans' in a literal compositional sense; over time the compound has come to denote the design and ethical principle of prioritizing human needs and perspectives.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or state of placing human needs, abilities, preferences, and limitations at the center of design, development, or decision-making processes (especially in design, engineering, and service contexts).
Human-centredness in product development improves usability and accessibility for a wider range of users.
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Noun 2
an orientation or ethical stance that values human welfare, dignity, and perspectives when forming policies, organizational practices, or social systems.
A commitment to human-centredness shaped the company's privacy and employee-wellbeing policies.
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Last updated: 2026/01/16 09:32