Subhuman
(adjective)
- Being below the standard of human beings in terms of intelligence, culture, or moral qualities.
- Being less than fully human in terms of rights, dignity, or moral status.
Origin:
From the latin word "sub" meaning under and "humanus" meaning belonging to human beings.
Examples:
- The idea that some races are subhuman is racist and has been discredited by science.
- The conditions in the concentration camp were inhumane and the prisoners were treated as subhuman.
- The treatment of the prisoners was subhuman and in violation of international law.
- The idea that some people are subhuman is fundamentally flawed and morally repugnant.
- The concept of subhuman is often used to justify acts of violence and discrimination against certain groups of people.