ethos

noun

ˈē-ˌthäs

Synonyms of ethos next

: 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”).  

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

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Everyone, at every phase of an organization, exudes a brand that conveys a style, ethos and image. —

Dr. Eric George, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025 In early 1941, Seeger teamed with three fellow militant musicians to form the Almanac Singers, whose ethos determined their playlist. —

Thomas Doherty, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Feb. 2025 The opening scene this season embodies that ethos: The girls chase their teammate Mari (played by Alexa Barajas) through the woods, only for the hunt to be revealed as part of a game. —

Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 18 Feb. 2025 As a Latin group, Maná carries that [activist] ethos and that way of thinking. —

Alex Zaragoza, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for ethos