The word "sympathizer" is spelled with a "z" rather than an "s" due to its etymology. It comes from the Greek word "sumpatheia," meaning "feeling together," which is also where we get the word "sympathy." The "th" sound in the Greek was eventually replaced with a "z" sound in English. The IPA transcription for "sympathizer" is /ˈsɪm.pə.θaɪzər/ to represent the pronunciation of the word accurately, including the stress on the second syllable.
A sympathizer is an individual who shows understanding, compassion, or support for a person, group, cause, or ideology. It refers to someone who shares or expresses sympathy towards the feelings, emotions, or beliefs of others, particularly those who are experiencing hardships, difficulties, or injustice. This term is commonly used to describe an individual who demonstrates empathy and kindness towards someone or something.
Sympathizers often provide moral or emotional backing to those who are struggling or facing adversity. They may actively listen to others' perspectives, displaying a genuine interest in their experiences and offering comfort or solace. These individuals may also publicly express their endorsement or endorsement of a particular cause or belief, expressing solidarity or allegiance with a group or individual.
While the term sympathizer is most often associated with positive connotations, it can also be applied to individuals who support controversial or polarizing causes or ideologies. In such cases, the term may carry negative implications, implying that the sympathizer is endorsing beliefs or actions that are deemed unacceptable or harmful by others.
Overall, a sympathizer is an individual who extends understanding, support, and empathy towards the feelings, causes, or beliefs of others, either expressed privately or publicly.
An eye affected with sympathetic ophthalmia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "sympathizer" has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek word "sympatheō", which is a combination of "syn" meaning "together" and "pathos" meaning "feeling" or "suffering". Therefore, the etymology of "sympathizer" refers to someone who shares or feels together the emotions or sufferings of another person or group.