compassion etymology

Etymology:

  • Latin: compassio ("suffering together")
  • com- ("with, together") + passio ("suffering")

Meaning and Origin:

Compassion refers to the ability to understand and share the suffering of others. It involves a deep emotional resonance and empathy that leads to a desire to help alleviate pain.

The word "compassion" originated in Latin as "compassio," meaning "suffering together." It is derived from the prefix "com-" (with, together) and the noun "passio" (suffering). The term originally referred to the physical or emotional experience of sharing the pain of another individual.

Over time, the meaning of compassion has evolved to encompass a wider range of emotions and behaviors. It now includes not only the ability to sympathize with the suffering of others but also the willingness to actively address it. Compassion is considered a virtue that promotes empathy, tolerance, and social harmony.

compassion relate terms

  • passion

    Etymology The word passion derives from the Late Latin word passio meaning sufferi

  • passive

    Etymology Passive adjective from Latin passivus meaning undergoing passive Et

  • sympathy

    Etymology Late Middle English from Old French simpathie from Late Latin sympathia fro

  • pity

    Etymology The word pity comes from the Old French word pitié which in turn comes fr

  • piteous

    Etymology The word piteous derives from the Old French word piteus which in turn is

  • bowel

    Etymology From Middle English bowel bouel from Old English bōl bowl belly from

  • commiseration

    Etymology Latin commiserari meaning to have pity on to commiserate Meaning The

  • ruth

    Etymology origin of the word The name Ruth is of Hebrew origin and comes from the word

  • pittance

    Etymology The word pittance derives from the Latin pietantia meaning a dish served

  • manhood

    Etymology The word manhood derives from the Old English word manhād which itself is

  • mercy

    Etymology Old French merci Late Latin merces reward payment Proto Indo European

  • fair

    Etymology The word fair originates from the Old English word fæger meaning beauti