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

The idea of actively defining an ethos apart from rampant gain and living by it in such a way as to let others live too… That doesn’t enter the picture. —Sara Holdren, Vulture, 10 Nov. 2025

The ethos behind the No Makeup Makeup brand has also caught the attention of Oprah, who just crowned No Fragrance Fragrance one of her favorite things of 2025. —Brittany Talarico, PEOPLE, 9 Nov. 2025

Their approach to outdoor gear, playful yet technical, inclusive yet elevated, perfectly complements our ethos of performance with purpose. —Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 7 Nov. 2025

Suddenly, sincerity felt like a fresher approach to a contemporary political story—more interesting, more unexpected, and more aligned with my artistic ethos. —Literary Hub, 5 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!