Doctor of Humane Letters
- noun
- /ˈdɒktər əv hjuˈmeɪn ˈlɛtərz/
- Specialized
:
Doctor en Letras Humanas
- A former Clemson student, he has an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Coker College.
- an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters
Examples
-
In 1994, Carver was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by Iowa State University.
-
She received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters for her contributions to literature.
-
James Wood accepted the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree on behalf of Mr. Ashe.
Synonyms
An honorary university degree given for important work in subjects like history or literature
A high-level degree for study or achievement in arts and humanities
How Advanced
- UK
139
4.8
- Specialized
61
3.3
34
2.7
307
2.7
Surface Forms
Morphology
doctor + of + Humane + letters
The components 'doctor' and 'letters' cue an academic degree related to literature or the humanities, so a learner who knows those words can partly infer that this is a degree title. However, the archaic use of 'Humane' (meaning 'humanities') and the crucial fact that this is typically an honorary rather than earned doctorate are not predictable from the parts alone. Because some meaning is recoverable (degree + literature) but key specifics are opaque, this is best classed as semi-transparent.
Etymology
Doctor of Humane Letters comes from an old university idea that Humane Letters meant the books and study about people and human life. So, universities give the title Doctor as a special 'honorary degree' to people who have done great work in literature, the arts, or helping others.