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

That ethos is increasingly visible among early-stage creator tools that have emerged in reaction to extractive platforms. —Dana Harris-Bridson, IndieWire, 6 Jan. 2026

There, a conservative spirit reigns in opposition to California’s famously liberal ethos. —Joseph Serna, Los Angeles Times, 6 Jan. 2026

The Song Sung Blue actor swapped his clean-cut ethos in favor of a grizzled beard and long silver hair for The Death of Robin Hood. —Lara Walsh, InStyle, 6 Jan. 2026

Leisure readers, offers a welcome taste of nostalgia in an era of hospitality when sleek modernism is the ethos du jour. —Jess Feldman, Travel + Leisure, 4 Jan. 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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