human-resource
UK[ˈhjuːmən rɪˈsɔːs]US[ˈhjuːmən ˈriːsɔːrs]
n
the department in a company that deals with hiring, training, and supporting employees
n
the people who work for an organization, considered as an asset
Morpheme Breakdown
human
resource
human
relating to people
resource
a supply of something useful
Etymology
The compound term "human resource" is a modern construct from the mid-20th century, applying industrial and economic terminology to people. The word "human" originates from the Latin humanus, which itself derives from homo, meaning "man" or "human being." "Resource" entered English from French, tracing back to the Latin resurgere (to rise again), implying a source that can be drawn upon when needed. The combination logically frames the workforce not merely as individuals but as a strategic asset or pool of talent that an organization can develop and utilize, reflecting a shift in managerial perspective.
Analysis
Structure: human (relating to people) + resource (a supply of something useful)
- human: From Latin humanus (of or belonging to man), related to homo (man). Functions as a noun modifier specifying the type of resource.
- resource: From Latin resurgere (to rise again), via French ressource (a source of aid or support). Functions as the head noun, meaning a valuable source or supply.
Examples
She works in the human-resource department, handling recruitment and employee relations.
Investing in training is essential for developing our human-resource capabilities.
The company's most valuable human-resource is its creative and dedicated team.