sympathetic

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective of or relating to the sympathetic nervous system
  2. adjective expressing or feeling or resulting from sympathy or compassion or friendly fellow feelings; disposed toward
  3. adjective showing or motivated by sympathy and understanding and generosity

Etymology

Mid 17th century in the sense “relating to an affinity or paranormal influence”, from Latin sympathēticus. By surface analysis, sympathy + -etic (“pertaining to”); compare pathetic. Displaced native Old English efnþrōwiende.

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