humanistic
UK[ˌhjuː.məˈnɪs.tɪk]US[ˌhjuː.məˈnɪs.tɪk]
adj
relating to humanism or humanists; having a system of thought that stresses the value and agency of human beings
adj
relating to or characteristic of the humanities (classical studies, literature, philosophy, etc.)
Morpheme Breakdown
human
ist
ic
human
human
ist
adherent
ic
adjective suffix
Etymology
the term 'humanistic' is built upon the latin root humanus, which itself derives from homo (man). the suffix -ist, entering english via latin from greek, denotes a follower of a doctrine, here 'humanism,' the renaissance intellectual movement that revived classical learning and emphasized human potential. the adjectival suffix -ic then attaches to form a word describing qualities related to that movement. thus, the literal construction "pertaining to a follower of the human" evolved to signify the values, studies, and cultural ideals centered on human interests, experience, and dignity, distinct from purely theological or scientific perspectives.
Analysis
Structure: human (human) + ist (adherent) + ic (adjective suffix)
- human: from latin humanus (human, humane), of or belonging to man. functions as the core root.
- ist: from greek -istes (agent suffix), via latin -ista. indicates an adherent or practitioner of a system.
- ic: from latin -icus, greek -ikos (adjective-forming suffix). denotes pertaining to or having the nature of.
Examples
the curriculum has a strong humanistic focus on literature and the arts.
her approach to medicine is remarkably humanistic, always considering the patient's emotional well-being.
the philosopher advocated for a humanistic ethics based on reason and compassion.