humanity
UK[hjuːˈmæn.ə.ti]US[hjuːˈmæn.ə.t̬i]
n
all human beings collectively; the human race.
n
the quality of being humane; benevolence.
n
the quality or condition of being human; human nature.
Morpheme Breakdown
human
ity
human
human being
ity
state or quality
Etymology
the word 'humanity' traces its lineage to the latin humanitas, which itself derives from humanus, meaning 'human'. Humanus is connected to homo, the latin word for 'man' or 'human being'. the suffix -itas was used to form nouns denoting a state or quality, thus humanitas originally encompassed the nature, character, or qualities considered proper to a human. over time, through old french humanité, the english word 'humanity' evolved to specifically signify the collective human species, the compassionate side of human nature (benevolence), and the general condition of being human.
Analysis
Structure: human (human being) + ity (state or quality)
human (from latin humanus, meaning 'of or belonging to man'), ity (from latin -itas, a suffix forming abstract nouns indicating a state or condition).
Examples
advances in medicine benefit all of humanity.
she was recognized for her great humanity and kindness towards refugees.
the story explores the flaws and strengths inherent in humanity.