sympathetic

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   relating to vibrations that occur as a result of vibrations in a nearby body

   sympathetic vibration

2. 2
   adj

   having similar disposition and tastes

   With our many similar tastes, I found you a most sympathetic companion.

3. 3
   adj

   (of characters in literature or drama) evoking empathic or sympathetic feelings

   the sympathetic characters in the play

4. 4
   adj

   of or relating to the sympathetic nervous system

   sympathetic neurons

5. 5
   adj

   Of, related to, feeling, showing, or characterized by sympathy.

   John looked very upset. I gave him a sympathetic look.

6. 6
   adj

   Relating to, producing, or denoting an effect which arises through an affinity, interdependence, or mutual association.

   Sympathetic magic is based on imitation or correspondence.

7. 7
   adj

   Relating to or denoting the part of the autonomic nervous system consisting of nerves arising from ganglia near the middle part of the spinal cord, supplying the internal organs, blood vessels, and glands, and balancing the action of the parasympathetic nerves.

   Sympathetic innervation involves epinephrine.

8. 8
   adj

   showing or motivated by sympathy and understanding and generosity

Etymology

Mid 17th century in the sense “relating to an affinity or paranormal influence”, from Latin sympathēticus. By surface analysis, sympathy + -etic (“pertaining to”); compare pathetic. Displaced native Old English efnþrōwiende.