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 ethos of the festival also involves looking out for fellow attendees, respecting The Farm and taking the loving energy of the festival out into the world. — Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2026

But outdated safety standards and a build-on-the-cheap ethos are likely just among various factors explaining why so many buildings across Venezuela came crashing down in this week’s earthquakes, the largest to hit the country in more than 125 years. — Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026

By the 1950s, they were being touted in Prevention, a magazine known for its back-to-nature ethos and openness to vaccine-skeptical views. — David Merritt Johns, The Atlantic, 27 June 2026

Every decision made in this episode aligns with the ethos of this restaurant and, by extension, the sensibility of Chris Storer’s television creation. — Jen Chaney, Vulture, 26 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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