Meanings
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1
adv
with respect to the sympathetic nervous system
The stimulus acted sympathetically.
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2
adv
in a sympathetic manner
They listened sympathetically.
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3
adv
Owing to or showing evidence of sympathy, or affinity; happening through or demonstrating correspondences, whether occult or physiological.
I feel sure that here before me were assembled those, in whose unhealing hearts the sight of those bleak tablets sympathetically caused the old wounds to bleed afresh.
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4
adv
In a manner which demonstrates a sharing in the feelings of others; compassionately.
Still she didn't stir, so he patted her shoulder and added sympathetically, 'Come now, don't take it so much to heart.'.
Thesaurus
Etymology
From sympathetical + -ly.