humanizing
|hu/man/iz/ing|
/ˈhjuːmənaɪz/
(humanize)
making humane
Etymology
'humanize' originates from modern English formation combining the adjective 'human' and the verb-forming suffix '-ize', ultimately from Latin 'humanus' meaning 'of man, humane'.
'humanus' (Latin) > Old French/Medieval Latin forms (humain/human-) > Middle English 'human' > verb formed as 'humanize' in the 17th–18th centuries via Old French/Latin-derived suffix '-ize' ('-iser' in French), leading to modern English 'humanize'.
Initially it meant 'to make human' (in the sense of 'to render human or natural'); over time it developed the related sense 'to make humane' (to make more compassionate or civilized), which is now common.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
present participle of 'humanize'; performing the action of making something more humane, kind, or considerate
The hospital is humanizing its policies to improve patient care, and staff meetings now include patient-centered training.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
present participle of 'humanize'; attributing human characteristics to something non-human (personifying)
By humanizing the robot in the story, the author made readers sympathize with its struggles.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
causing something to seem more humane or human; having a softening, sympathetic effect
The documentary had a humanizing effect on the public's view of migrants.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/09/13 04:41