Simple Definition of pathos

from our Learner's Dictionary

pathos

noun

literary : a quality that causes people to feel sympathy and sadness
Our knowledge of his tragic end adds an element of pathos to the story of his early success.

Cite this Entry

“Pathos.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/pathos. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.

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