Definition

Showing an ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.

Example

She is very empathetic and always listens to her friends when they have problems.

Conversation

I really appreciate how empathetic you are when I talk about my problems.

Thanks! I try to understand what you're going through.

It makes me feel supported and less alone.

I'm glad to hear that; being empathetic is important to me.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Empathetic → It is formed from "em-" (meaning in or within) and "pathos" (from Greek, meaning feeling or suffering) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The word "empathetic" describes a quality of being able to understand and share the feelings of another, as if feeling within them.

Memory Tip

Think of 'feeling within' ('em-') someone else's 'suffering' ('pathos') to remember that 'empathetic' means to understand and share another's feelings.

Visually Confused Words