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
Erin Hill, People.com, 14 Dec. 2024
This ethos of self-acceptance and creative exploration lies at the heart of the iconic collective’s legacy.
—Okla Jones, Essence, 13 Dec. 2024
While one of the main goals of the floating padel court is of course to provide a one-of-a-kind place to play padel in Miami, another is to provide a glimpse into the design ethos and innovation behind Yntegra Group’s upcoming development in the Exumas.
—Staff Author, Travel + Leisure, 12 Dec. 2024
Shoppers will also be pleased with the fact that the items stay true to the very ethos that Skims got famous for in the first place: enhancing curves.
—Stacia Datskovska, WWD, 10 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for ethos 
Dictionary Entries Near ethos
Cite this Entry
“Ethos.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ethos. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.
Copy Citation
Share