empathize

verb

em·​pa·​thize ˈem-pə-ˌthīz How to pronounce empathize (audio)
empathized; empathizing

intransitive verb

: to experience empathy
empathized with his son's fears
empathizer noun

Examples of empathize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
While speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the Town & Country Philanthropy Summit on Tuesday, Oct. 29, Hargitay shared that she's leaned even more into her unique ability to empathize with others since turning 60 in January. Escher Walcott, People.com, 30 Oct. 2024 Most people are born with the ability to empathize, to understand mistakes in context and to forgive errors. Giuliana Corbo, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 Your ability to listen and empathize will not only strengthen your bonds but also create a magical atmosphere of trust and understanding in your circle. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 31 Oct. 2024 On social media, people began empathizing with Cooper’s plight. Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 10 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for empathize 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1916, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of empathize was circa 1916

Dictionary Entries Near empathize

Cite this Entry

“Empathize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/empathize. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

empathize

intransitive verb
em·​pa·​thize
variants or British empathise
empathized or British empathised; empathizing or British empathising
: to experience empathy
adults unable to empathize with a child's frustrations

More from Merriam-Webster on empathize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!