PATHOS Synonyms: 38 Similar and Opposite Words

pathos

noun

Definition of pathos

as in sorrow

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of pathos But the rollicking jollity that accompanies the final two acts, which includes the entrance of pirates and the abduction of Marina to a brothel, robs the ending of some of its pathos. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 5 Sep. 2026 Pacino gives one of the most exhausted yet energetic performances in cinematic history, and Chris Sarandon grounds the whole thing in genuine pathos. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Aug. 2026 Now, The End of Oak Street is proving a dino blockbuster that serves up prehistoric horror with a side of genuine pathos is still a worthy endeavor. — Megan McCluskey, Time, 14 Aug. 2026 There’s pathos, and shrewd irony, underpinning his performance. — Daniel D'addario, Variety, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pathos

Recent Examples of Synonyms for pathos

Noun

Because so many of Gunn’s friends died in San Francisco, a city where Gunn had found happiness and freedom, then these elegies are also a monument to a time of communal sorrow and mourning.

— Colm Tóibín, Literary Hub, 30 Sep. 2026
Another decision that those who are rejected face, at least if anger is mixed in with sorrow, is where to direct that anger.

— George Loewenstein, Vogue, 28 Sep. 2026

Definition of sorrow

Noun

Common issues include grief, divorce or exploring childhood trauma.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026
Harry seems more at home in conversation with O’Connor, his eyes searching for answers to soft-spoken queries about grief’s effect on the brain, then lighting up with warmth at the memory of Diana.

— Savannah Walsh, Vanity Fair, 8 Oct. 2026

Definition of grief

Noun

Cubs fans generally don’t care about the Sox, so their misery was focused solely on their team’s no-show performance at Petco Park.

— Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 2 Oct. 2026
The origin story helps contextualize the misery and self-isolation of Cathy’s later years, as the madam of a Salinas whorehouse.

— Alison Herman, Variety, 1 Oct. 2026

Definition of misery

Noun

The Panthers’ early season power play woes continued, going 0 for 5 with the man advantage on Saturday to start the campaign 1 for 28 overall.

— Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 11 Oct. 2026
Regardless, offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel has been busy addressing the offensive unit’s woes.

— Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 10 Oct. 2026

Definition of woe

Browse Nearby Words

pathologists

pathos

paths

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“Pathos.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pathos. Accessed 12 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of pathos

noun

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