rehumanization
|re-hu-ma-ni-za-tion|
🇺🇸
/ˌriːˌhjuːmənaɪˈzeɪʃən/
🇬🇧
/ˌriːˌhjuːmənaɪˈzeɪʃ(ə)n/
(rehumanize)
making human again
Etymology
'rehumanization' originates from Modern English, specifically formed from the prefix 're-' (from Latin 're-') meaning 'again', the root 'human' from Latin 'humanus' meaning 'human', and the suffix '-ization' (via '-ize' + '-ation') meaning 'the process or result of making'.
'rehumanization' developed by prefixing 're-' to the verb 'humanize'. 'Humanize' entered English from French 'humaniser' and Medieval Latin 'humanizare', which in turn comes from Latin 'humanus'. The modern noun form '-ization' was added to form 'rehumanization'.
Initially built from elements meaning 'again' + 'make human', it has consistently meant 'the process of making or restoring human qualities'; contemporary use extends this to social and political contexts as well as personal/clinical contexts.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act or process of restoring human qualities, dignity, or humane treatment to a person or group; making human again.
The hospital launched a program focused on the rehumanization of patient care.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
a social or political process by which people or groups previously marginalized or devalued are recognized and treated as full human beings.
Activists argued that rehumanization of marginalized communities requires systemic change.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/13 21:26