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

After the modernising ethos of the Eyraud era, this — the thinking went — was a way of putting football back at the very heart of the club’s management structure. —Tom Williams, New York Times, 17 May 2026

To further explore business opportunities, the brand will also attend the Cabana Show, which runs in Miami May 30 to June 1 and targets resort and travel lifestyle brands, which is in tune with Collanine Colorate’s summery ethos and past activations. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 15 May 2026

The Sabal Suite deepens this ethos by extending the experience directly into the suite's private quarters through a dedicated wellness room, allowing guests to curate a personal recovery or movement ritual without leaving the comfort of the suite. —Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026

The resulting project embraces imperfection, an ethos Bingham claims to have grown more comfortable with over time. —Chris Barilla, PEOPLE, 15 May 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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