Definition of inhuman

The word "inhuman" has its origins in Middle English, specifically around the 14th century. It comes from the Old French word "inhumain" which in turn derived from the Latin phrase "inhumanus," meaning "unfeeling" or "unsympathetic." In Latin, the word "humanus" referred to anything that was related to humans, emphasizing qualities such as compassion, emotions, and reasoning that were believed to be unique to humans. "Inhumanus," therefore, referred to anything that lacked these qualities, such as animals or machines. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved. In the 15th century, "inhuman" began to be used to describe repulsive or inhumane acts, such as torture or cruelty towards humans. By the 19th century, the word was being used more generally to describe anything that was not typically considered to be human, including supernatural beings like vampires and monsters. In modern usage, "inhuman" continues to carry a negative connotation, implying a lack of compassion, sensitivity, or regard for human dignity and rights. It is often used in scientific contexts to describe traits or behaviors that are outside of the normal range of human physiology or psychology, such as extreme strength or intelligence. In summary, the word "inhuman" originated in Latin and evolved in meaning over time, coming to represent anything that lacks the qualities typically associated with humans, including cruelty towards humans and supernatural beings, as well as traits that are outside of the normal range of human physiology or psychology.