inhuman
Inhuman (adj) means Shockingly cruel or brutal, lacking normal human kindness. Example: “The prisoners were kept in inhuman conditions.”
How to use inhuman
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSo cruel it seems to go beyond what a decent human being would do.
Don't mix up with inhumane, which specifically means causing needless suffering (e.g., inhumane treatment of animals); inhuman is broader and can also just mean "not human-like."
Word forms
more inhuman comparative, most inhuman superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The prisoners were kept in _____ conditions.
Etymology
From Latin inhumanus, "not human" — in- ("not") plus humanus.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for inhuman
See all rhymes for inhuman →Frequently asked questions
What does “inhuman” mean?
The word “inhuman” means shockingly cruel or brutal, lacking normal human kindness. In plain terms, so cruel it seems to go beyond what a decent human being would do.
How do you pronounce “inhuman”?
“Inhuman” is pronounced ihn-HYOO-muhn (/ɪnˈhjuːmən/ in IPA).
How do you use “inhuman” in a sentence?
Here is “inhuman” used in a sentence: “The prisoners were kept in inhuman conditions.”
What is the opposite of “inhuman”?
The opposite of “inhuman” — its antonyms — is humane.
What part of speech is “inhuman”?
“Inhuman” is an adjective.
Where does the word “inhuman” come from?
The word “inhuman” comes from Latin. From Latin inhumanus, "not human" — in- ("not") plus humanus.
Is “inhuman” a common word?
“Inhuman” is an uncommon word in modern English.