Definition of the word sympathetic

The word "sympathetic" originates from the Greek words "syn" meaning "together" and "pathos" meaning "suffering" or "affection". In ancient Greek, the word "sympathetikos" (συンパθητικός) referred to the capacity to feel or share the emotions or sufferings of others. This concept was later adopted into Latin as "sympatheticus" and then into Middle English as "sympathetic". Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include the idea of being supportive, compassionate, and understanding towards others. Today, the word "sympathetic" is commonly used to describe someone who shows empathy and kindness towards others, often in times of distress or adversity.