humanely

Everyday

Humanely means in a kind way that causes as little pain or suffering as possible, especially to animals or prisoners. tree →

In the lessons

In science and animal care it is about treating animals kindly; humane traps catch animals without hurting them. Phrases: «treated humanely», «humanely caught», «humanely put down» (euphemism).

Examples

• The mice were caught humanely and let go in a field. tree →
• Farm animals should be treated humanely. tree →
• The prisoners were treated humanely. tree →
• The old dog was humanely put to sleep by the vet. tree →
• Use a humane trap to catch the rat humanely. tree →
• The rescue centre cares for animals humanely. tree →

Note

Spelling: hu-MANE-ly. Do not confuse «humane» (kind) with «human» (a person). «Put to sleep / put down humanely» is a euphemism for killing a sick animal without pain.