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

• 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

With bold colours, and a sporty-chic ethos, the swimwear, one-pieces and co-ords have been designed for poolside to padel and beyond. —Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2025

For years, DeMarco has held fast to a salty ethos of self-reliance that includes resistance to the notion of scaling up. —Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 11 Aug. 2025

Morris built his company on a simple but powerful ethos, one that’s rooted in people-centricity. —Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 11 Aug. 2025

That green ethos is also reflected in the collection’s earthy color palette, which mimics the landscape of Patagonia itself. —Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 8 Aug. 2025

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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