empathize

verb

em·​pa·​thize ˈem-pə-ˌthīz 

empathized; empathizing

intransitive verb

: to experience empathy

empathized with his son's fears

empathizer

ˈem-pə-ˌthī-zər 

noun

Examples of empathize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Then, empathize by seeking to understand others’ perspectives and challenges, even if their experiences differ from yours. —Gena Cox, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025

Braves manager Brian Snitker empathized with him and wished the rookie a speedy recovery. —Paulina Dedaj, FOXNews.com, 6 May 2025

By playing with the plushy, kids learn to empathize with others, express their own feelings, and process difficult emotions safely and age-appropriately. —Anja Webb, Parents, 30 Apr. 2025

Perhaps more than any other country, Finland can empathize with the peril of Ukraine’s position in peace talks. —Paul Sonne, New York Times, 29 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1916, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for empathize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Medical Definition

empathize

intransitive verb

em·​pa·​thize

variants or British empathise

ˈem-pə-ˌthīz 

empathized or British empathised; empathizing or British empathising

: to experience empathy

adults unable to empathize with a child's frustrations