pertaining to or concerned with the humanities
"humanistic studies"
"a humane education"
marked or motivated by concern with the alleviation of suffering
"The humane society works tirelessly to find homes for abandoned animals and provide them with necessary medical care."
showing evidence of moral and intellectual advancement
"The museum's new exhibition highlighted how ancient Greek art demonstrated a humane approach to depicting human emotion and reason."
Having or showing concern for the pain or suffering of another; compassionate.
"The humane treatment of injured wildlife ensured that no animal suffered unnecessarily during recovery."
In plain English: Humane means treating people and animals with kindness and compassion rather than cruelty.
"The humane society works to rescue and rehabilitate abandoned animals."
Usage: Use "humane" to describe actions, laws, or treatment rather than people's inherent character. It specifically denotes compassion toward animals or those in distress, distinguishing itself from general kindness.
The word "humane" comes from the Latin homo, meaning "man," and entered Middle English through Old French as a term for being kind or gentle toward people. Its root is also related to the Old English word for man, which eventually gave us the modern English word "groom."