sympathizer
UK: ˈsɪmpəθaɪzə | US: ˈsɪmpəˌθaɪzər
n. a person who agrees with or supports a sentiment, opinion, or ideology
n. someone who expresses compassion or understanding for another's suffering
The word sympathizer originates from Greek sympatheia ("fellow feeling"), combining syn- (together) and pathos (feeling). The suffix -izer was added in English to denote a person who actively shares or supports another's emotions or cause. The term evolved from passive empathy (sympathy) to active alignment (sympathizer), reflecting a shift from shared feeling to overt support.
During the war, suspected sympathizers of the rebellion were closely monitored.
As a lifelong animal rights sympathizer, she donated regularly to shelters.
The politician was accused of being a sympathizer of extremist groups.
He became a sympathizer after witnessing the struggles of the marginalized community.
The novel’s protagonist is a quiet sympathizer who aids refugees in secret.