empathetic

adjective

em·​pa·​thet·​ic ˌem-pə-ˈthe-tik How to pronounce empathetic (audio)
Synonyms of empathetic
: involving, characterized by, or based on empathy
empathetically adverb

Examples of empathetic in a Sentence

an empathetic social worker who soon realized that the single mother was at her breaking point
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Throughout modern history, first ladies have often served as the empathetic, emotive counterpart to their husbands, who tend to remain more manly and stoic. Joy Press, Vanity Fair, 28 Apr. 2026 His innate compassion connects him with the zodiac Pisces, a sign known to be sweet and empathetic. Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 28 Apr. 2026 The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation, but told USA TODAY the FBI has found other writings by Allen that authorities are now reviewing, some of which expressed empathetic views on transgender issues. Christopher Cann, USA Today, 27 Apr. 2026 Incredible special effects work and voice acting make for a creature that is both empathetic and alarming. Richard Newby, HollywoodReporter, 27 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for empathetic

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of empathetic was in 1912

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Empathetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/empathetic. Accessed 5 May. 2026.

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