Dehumanize - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To dehumanize means to treat someone as if they are not human, often by denying their dignity, rights, or individuality. It is used to describe cruel or degrading behavior that strips people of their humanity.
Definition:
To deprive of human qualities, personality, or dignity; treat as less than human.
Synonyms:
brutalize, degrade, objectify, oppress
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
humanize, dignify
Common Collocations:
dehumanize prisoners, dehumanize victims, dehumanize workers
Derivatives:
dehumanization, dehumanizing
Usage Tips:
Use "dehumanize" when describing actions that strip people of their humanity or reduce them to objects.
Common Phrases:
dehumanize the enemy, dehumanizing treatment, process of dehumanization
Etymology:
From Latin "de-" (remove) + "humanus" (human), meaning to remove human qualities from someone or something.
Examples:
- 1. The dictator sought to dehumanize his opponents through propaganda.
- 2. War propaganda often aims to dehumanize the enemy to justify violence.
- 3. Slavery was a system designed to dehumanize individuals for economic gain.
- 4. Some argue that harsh prison conditions can dehumanize inmates over time.