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

For its part, the M2 is seen by many as one of the last bastions of the M division’s original ethos. —Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 18 Mar. 2026

This ethos bleeds into every aspect of game and player management. —Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2026

That humble ethos still extends to how films are made. —Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 17 Mar. 2026

This is a region of builders and dreamers, and when this war ends, that ethos will remain. —Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 16 Mar. 2026

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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