pathos

Definition of pathosnext

Example Sentences

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 Themes of self-sacrifice dance around the script, but for a film that deals with such dark ideas as isolation and death in space, the film undermines its own pathos at every opportunity. Katie Walsh, Twin Cities, 21 Mar. 2026 At work, while reporting near a looming tornado, Clark meets Floyd (played with a touching, funny pathos by David Harbour), a sign-language interpreter. Vinson Cunningham, New Yorker, 20 Mar. 2026 Themes of self-sacrifice dance around the script, but for a film that deals with such dark ideas as isolation and death in space, the film undermines its own pathos at every opportunity. Katie Walsh, Boston Herald, 19 Mar. 2026 What sets Brule apart from fellow idiots in similar setups like Borat or Philomena Cunk is Reilly’s ability to present Brule with deep pathos and a sense of mystery, offering glimpses into a dark backstory, all made unsettling by the show’s analog-horror aesthetic. Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pathos
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pathos
Noun
  • Bieber has had clashes with the paparazzi, and has sent ambiguous messages over social media hinting at his sorrow.
    Vinson Cunningham, New Yorker, 18 Apr. 2026
  • León said the band's goal at demonstrations is to redirect protesters' anger and sorrow.
    Adrian Florido, NPR, 16 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Here, in this new context, their large eyes did not seem wide with their usual wonder but swollen with grief and disbelief.
    Douglas Stuart, New Yorker, 12 Apr. 2026
  • The overwhelming grief of losing a child became even worse when a detective gave her a notebook from Audree’s locker.
    Meena Duerson, CNN Money, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Sanders suffered injuries, including a concussion, headaches, possible traumatic brain injury, back and tailbone injuries and extreme mental anguish.
    Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Examples include chronic pain, emotional anguish, anxiety, scarring or disfigurement, and the inability to enjoy your hobbies, sports, or daily activities.
    William Jones, Sacbee.com, 17 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Where joy and heartache can both be true, all of the time.
    Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 11 Apr. 2026
  • There are no right words to say to capture the magnitude of heartache around this tragedy.
    Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 9 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • There are so many exquisite, Netherlandish, hyperreal details to admire in the piece—the shadow of Giovanna’s necklace, the enamel decorations on her cross, the frizz of her hair—but there’s something about the ribbon that feels like a banner of heartbreak.
    Zachary Fine, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026
  • The best way to get over heartbreak is with a killer haircut.
    Brittany Talarico, PEOPLE, 20 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Robertson grounds both versions of Niall in a sad-eyed misery, with Bell stepping in and giving the character grace notes of humor that don’t always seem to fit the story.
    Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 21 Apr. 2026
  • The show is a propulsive hurricane of misery and cringe, from the violent incident that sets off this series of unfortunate events to the twists and horrors that unfold.
    Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 16 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Less than one month into the season, injury woes have become a recurring theme for the Chicago Cubs pitching staff.
    Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Partly, Tokischa blames management woes.
    Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 17 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Pathos.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pathos. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

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