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 current government’s attempts to ignore the Fourth Amendment fly in the face of our constitutional democracy and disregard the very foundations of our national ethos. —Amanda Cats-Baril, Twin Cities, 4 Mar. 2026

Disco, Occasionally, set for release on Friday, March 6, which emerged from an ethos that came to him in the midst of this grief. —Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 4 Mar. 2026

That ethos is popular once again with the incorporation of natural materials like wicker, landscape designer Kristen Kelly says. —Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 4 Mar. 2026

This ethos defines Spice Lab Tokyo, his Ginza laboratory where spices bridge the gap between Japanese seasons. —Nupur Singh, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Feb. 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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