ethos

noun

ˈē-ˌthäs 

: the distinguishing character, sentiment, moral nature, or guiding beliefs of a person, group, or institution

also : ethic sense 1d

Did you know?

In Greek, ēthos means “custom” or “character.” As originally used by Aristotle, it referred to a person’s character or personality, especially with respect to a balance between passion and caution. In English, ethos is used today to refer to the practices or values that distinguish one person, organization, or society from others. In rhetoric, ethos is often studied alongside pathos and logos as a technique to successfully persuade an audience. Related terms in the English language include ethics (“a branch of philosophy dealing with what is morally right or wrong”) and ethology (“a branch of knowledge dealing with human character and with its formation and evolution”).  

Synonyms of ethos

• principles
• norms
• standards
• ethics
• morals
• morality

Examples of ethos in a Sentence

The company made environmental awareness part of its business ethos.

They are working to keep a democratic ethos alive in the community.

Recent Examples on the Web

American ethos played out everywhere. —Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 13 June 2026

Building Sugarwater also reflects Carrie’s broader ethos, one that rejects a scarcity mindset and instead embraces collaboration and connectivity. —Britt Julious, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026

That’s been like the whole ethos of the project. —Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 12 June 2026

Miley picked up on the album's ethos, too. —Alex Ross, PEOPLE, 12 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek ēthos custom, character — more at sib

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

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