Pronunciation: [pɐθˈɛtɪkə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "pathetical" is often misspelled as "pathetic". However, the correct spelling is with an extra "a" - "path-uh-ti-kuh l". This can be explained through its IPA phonetic transcription /pəˈθɛtɪkəl/. The extra "a" comes from the pronunciation of the word, which has a slight emphasis on the "a" sound in the second syllable. Despite being a less common spelling, it is still widely accepted in academic and literary circles.
"Pathetical" is an adjective used to describe something or someone that evokes a strong sense of sympathy, pity, or compassion. It is often used to express the feeling of sadness, distress, or sorrow that arises when encountering a situation or person who is deserving of sympathy due to their unfortunate circumstances or condition.
The term is derived from the word "pathetic," which originally conveyed the idea of inspiring compassionate emotions or evoking empathy. However, "pathetical" distinguishes itself by emphasizing the stronger emotional response that is engendered when confronted with a particularly pitiable situation.
When referring to a person as pathetical, it implies that they are deserving of pity or compassion due to their vulnerability, helplessness, or misfortune. This characteristic can manifest in various forms, such as physical or emotional suffering, deprivation, or a state of powerlessness. The pathetical individual may elicit a range of emotional responses from others, encompassing empathy, kindness, and a desire to offer aid or comfort.
Similarly, objects, situations, or events can also be described as pathetical when they provoke a sympathetic or sorrowful reaction. For example, a dilapidated building in a poverty-stricken area may be considered pathetical because it symbolizes the neglected conditions faced by its inhabitants.
Overall, the term "pathetical" serves to highlight the emotional impact of a situation, person, or object by emphasizing the depth of sympathy and pity it evokes from others.
• Affecting or moving such passions as pity, sorrow, or grief.
• That style or manner of language adapted to awaken the passions of pity, sorrow, or grief.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pathetical" is derived from the root word "pathetic", which in turn has its origins in the Greek word "pathētikos" (παθητικός) meaning "capable of feeling, sensitive". In ancient Greek drama, the term "pathētikos" referred to the ability of a play to arouse strong emotions in its audience. Over time, the meaning of "pathetic" shifted to convey a sense of sympathy or sadness, often associated with a feeling of pity. "Pathetical" is an adjective form of "pathetic" and carries similar connotations, describing something that evokes or expresses strong emotion or deep feeling.
