empathize

verb

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

intransitive verb

: to experience empathy
empathized with his son's fears
empathizer
ˈem-pə-ˌthī-zər How to pronounce empathize (audio)
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.
Clancy might have been, for some, easy to empathize with because she was supported by her ex-husband, colleagues, family, and friends. — Anja Aronowsky Cronberg, New Yorker, 24 Oct. 2026 As the parent of two small kids, DeGroot empathizes with both God’s anger — and the love that supersedes it. — Casper Ter Kuile, Vox, 21 Oct. 2026 Teamwork Beyond technical expertise, employers value the capability to build trust, empathize and collaborate across teams. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026 Many commenters empathize with the dad while also recognizing flying (and public transportation in general) with young kids isn’t ideal. — Devonne Goode, Parents, 26 Sep. 2026 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

Rhymes for empathize

See All Rhymes for empathize

Browse Nearby Words

empathise
empathize
empathy
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Cite this Entry

“Empathize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/empathize. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

empathize

intransitive verb
em·​pa·​thize
variants or British empathise
ˈem-pə-ˌthīz How to pronounce empathize (audio)
empathized or British empathised; empathizing or British empathising
: to experience empathy
adults unable to empathize with a child's frustrations

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