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empath

American  
[em-path] / ˈɛmˌpæθ /

noun

  1. a person who has a particular tendency or ability to enter into or psychologically identify with the emotions, thoughts, or attitudes of others.

    If you feel you need to avoid negative news stories to protect your emotions, you might be an empath.


Etymology

Origin of empath

First recorded in 1955–60; back formation from empathy ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For Garcia, a natural empath, filmmaking is another form of caregiving.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 15, 2025

Jane, not her real name, believes Goodwin was quick to identify an empath who would do everything to help him if they believed his mental health was in crisis.

From BBC • May 9, 2025

In the digital age, this has manifested itself in various forms, from so-called “survival courses” for empaths to quizzes akin to personality tests to determine if you are an empath.

From Salon • Sep. 14, 2024

Along with Bittelig, the group’s strong man, Alto the thespian, and Judy the empath, everyone nonchalantly reminds Kevin of how boring he is while also proving they need him.

From Salon • Jul. 24, 2024

BLOODMATE: A strong, possibly latent empath who has been changed by the nosferatu pseudo-virus to an extremely capable blood donor, able to supply all a Kin's needs.

From Concordance A Terran Empire concordance by Wilson, Ann