empathetic
UK: ˌem.pəˈθet.ɪk | US: ˌem.pəˈθet̬.ɪk
adj. showing an ability to understand and share the feelings of others
adj. characterized by empathy or emotional connection
The word "empathetic" derives from the Greek root "pathos" (πάθος), meaning "feeling" or "suffering," combined with the prefix "em-" (a variant of "en-," meaning "in"). The suffix "-etic" transforms the noun into an adjective, similar to "-ic." The term evolved through German "Einfühlung" (literally "feeling into"), which was translated into English as "empathy" in the early 20th century. "Empathetic" emerged as its adjectival form, reflecting the psychological concept of emotionally resonating with others.
She gave an empathetic response to her friend's struggles.
The therapist was highly empathetic, making clients feel understood.
His empathetic nature made him a great leader.
Children often develop empathetic skills through social interactions.
The novel’s protagonist is deeply empathetic toward others’ pain.