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.
This silence allows both partners to empathize with each other and make a more thoughtful decision. Mark Travers, Forbes, 21 Dec. 2024 Everett’s evocative prose and unflinching narrative invite readers to confront uncomfortable truths about America’s past while empathizing deeply with Jim’s plight. The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 20 Dec. 2024 The Simpsons is a generous show — allowing viewers the opportunity to empathize with so many characters. Jesse David Fox, Vulture, 17 Dec. 2024 Someone with an overloaded brain can begin to dissociate from their lives and ultimately become removed from their ability to empathize with others, Cook said. Amanda Musa, CNN, 15 Dec. 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 30 Dec. 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!