inhuman
UK[ɪnˈhjuːmən]US[ɪnˈhjuːmən]
adj
lacking qualities of sympathy, pity, or warmth; cruel and barbarous.
adj
not human in nature or character.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
human
in
not
human
human being
Etymology
the word "inhuman" is a straightforward compound formed within english from the latin-derived prefix "in-" and the root "human." the prefix "in-," from latin, functions as a negative particle, akin to english "un-." the root "human" traces back to latin humanus, which is related to homo meaning "man." thus, the literal construction is "not human." over time, this literal sense evolved to describe actions or behaviors so cruel or devoid of compassion that they seem to fall outside the expected bounds of human nature. the term captures the conceptual link between humanity and moral virtue, implying that to be truly human is to possess certain empathetic qualities.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + human (human being)
in- (latin origin, a prefix meaning "not"); human (from latin humanus, meaning "of man, human," functioning as the root noun)
Examples
the prisoners were subjected to inhuman treatment.
the workload made inhuman demands on her time and health.
there was an inhuman coldness in his eyes.