ethos

noun

ˈē-ˌthäs 

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

also : ethic sense 1d

Synonyms

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

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 ethos — simultaneously celebrated and unsettling — is largely the same over the horizon off the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf coasts, in fisheries bringing billions of pounds of seafood to consumers each year. —C.j. Chivers James Patrick Cronin Elena Hecht Anna Diamond Quinton Kamara, New York Times, 6 June 2024

The founder mentioned that Hoffman’s inclusive sizing was a significant draw but what resonated deeply with her was the ethos behind the designs. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 3 June 2024

Sustainability is also an essential pillar of The Swag’s ethos. —Juliet Izon, Travel + Leisure, 21 May 2024

And he soon became intrigued by ballroom’s ethos of partnership. —Brian Schaefer, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above