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

Your ethos must be the foundation of your company’s values and actions. —Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 24 Nov. 2025

Bloys is once again leaning into that ethos. —Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 22 Nov. 2025

America has always had a dominant public ethos shaped by a historical Protestant-majority culture. —MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2025

That ethos extends to policy, where Ambercycle—and its peers—are actively working together to provide recommendations to bodies like the European Union in an effort to help shape a supportive regulatory landscape for the long journey ahead. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 18 Nov. 2025

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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