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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
Emma Sarappo, The Atlantic, 20 Sep. 2025
The prize’s ethos echoes the founders’ personal histories and ties to the Mediterranean region, with Chetrite originally hailing from Morocco and Luciani from Lebanon.
—Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 19 Sep. 2025
At the airport, art is part of a long-standing ethos — a philosophy that’s deeply rooted in community and designed to foster and nurture connection.
—Abby Hamblin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Sep. 2025
Unrivaled’s $340 million valuation, announced earlier this month, is a strong indicator that Stewart and Collier were right to bet on themselves and the player-first ethos that guides their company.
—Timeka Tounsel, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Ethos.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ethos. Accessed 23 Sep. 2025.
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