empathic

adjective

em·​path·​ic em-ˈpa-thik 

im-

: involving, characterized by, or based on empathy : empathetic

It is also during early childhood that people begin experiencing empathic guilt—feeling distress when they have been the cause of someone else's discomfort.

—Joseph Alper

empathically

em-ˈpa-thi-k(ə-)lē 

im-

adverb

listening empathically

Synonyms

• commiserative
• compassionate
• empathetic
• humane
• sympathetic
• understanding

Examples of empathic in a Sentence

gave an empathic nod as I recounted my repeated efforts to land a decent-paying job in a tough economy

Recent Examples on the Web

Karla’s empathic nature clashed with Juan’s free-spirited energy, and on more than one occasion, her feelings of neglect turned vindictive towards Juan. —Miguel Santiago, People.com, 27 Nov. 2024

Cancer is incredibly emotional and sensitive, like incredibly compassionate and empathic. —Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 24 Oct. 2024

To win over your boss, Wiens suggests the following: Meet deadlines ahead of time and lend an empathic ear during difficult times. —Morgan Smith, CNBC, 10 Oct. 2024

Pain studies show that involvement of a health care provider who is empathic and attentive helps heal patients’ pain. —Kara Margolis, Chicago Tribune, 4 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

empathic

adjective

em·​path·​ic em-ˈpath-ik, im- 

: involving, characterized by, or based on empathy

empathically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb