humankind

noun

hu·​man·​kind ˈhyü-mən-ˌkīnd How to pronounce humankind (audio) ˈyü- How to pronounce humankind (audio)
singular or plural in construction
Synonyms of humankindnext
: the human race : humanity

Examples of humankind in a Sentence

all humankind shares the desire for peace perhaps someday humankind will find the key that unlocks the mystery of the universe
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Like Trazzi, Reichstadter’s concerns are existential — an AI system that could one day break containment and usher in unknown horrors on humankind. Joe Wilkins, Futurism, 26 Mar. 2026 No Tang and food in tubes for the astronauts on the Artemis 2 moon mission – space food has come a long way since humankind first began regularly venturing beyond Earth's atmosphere more than six decades ago. Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 26 Mar. 2026 If those plans were to pass, the sky as humankind has known it for millions of years would change beyond recognition. Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 22 Mar. 2026 Instead it is managed by the International Seabed Authority for the benefit of humankind as a whole. Coalter G Lathrop, The Conversation, 13 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for humankind

Word History

First Known Use

1560, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of humankind was in 1560

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Cite this Entry

“Humankind.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/humankind. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

humankind

noun
hu·​man·​kind ˈhyü-mən-ˌkīnd How to pronounce humankind (audio)
ˈyü-

Medical Definition

humankind

noun
hu·​man·​kind ˈhyü-mən-ˌkīnd How to pronounce humankind (audio) ˈyü How to pronounce humankind (audio)
: the human race

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