Meaning & Definition of word "Sympathy"

Sympathy

/ˈsɪmpəθi/

noun:

  • 1. The feeling of pity and sorrow for someone else's misfortune.
    • Example: She expressed her sympathy to the family who had lost their home in the fire.
  • 2. Understanding between people; common feeling.
    • Example: There was a strong sympathy between the two friends, making them inseparable.
  • 3. Support or approval for an idea or a plan.
    • Example: The politician received a great deal of sympathy for her proposals on healthcare reform.
  • 4. An affinity, association, or relationship between things or people.
    • Example: He felt a deep sympathy for the struggles of the underprivileged.

Etymology

From Greek, 'sympatheia', meaning 'fellow feeling'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

express sympathy:

To convey feelings of sorrow or compassion to someone.

feel sympathy for:

To have feelings of pity or compassion for someone.

sympathy card:

A card sent to express condolences to someone who is grieving.

Related Words

empathy:

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

compassion:

Sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.

condolence:

An expression of sympathy, especially on the occasion of a death.

Slang Meanings of sympathy