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Definition of sympathizer

sympathizer

/ˈsɪm.pə.θaɪ.zər/
(UK: sympathiser)
sym · pa · thi · zer
Adverb:sympathetically
•
Plural:sympathizers
•
Adjective:sympathetic
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sympathizer Lexical Profile

sympathizer Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person who agrees with, supports, or favors a particular political cause, movement, or organization, often without being an official member.

Example

"Historians noted that several local merchants acted as quiet sympathizers for the reform movement."

2

A person who feels or expresses compassion, understanding, or commiseration for someone experiencing hardship or grief.

Example

"During her recovery, she was grateful for the letters sent by friends and sympathizers."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sympathizer
Antonyms
View all antonyms for sympathizer

Word Nuance & Usage

While derived from 'sympathy', 'sympathizer' is most commonly used in political or ideological contexts to describe someone who quietly favors a group or cause, often carrying a suspicious or negative connotation when the group is controversial.

• Nearby Words

sympathetic
sympathetically
sympathize
sympathizer
sympathy
symphonic
symphonically

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the verb 'sympathize' plus the agent suffix '-er', ultimately tracing back via Late Latin 'sympathia' to Ancient Greek 'sympatheia', meaning 'fellow-feeling' (from 'syn-' meaning 'together' and 'pathos' meaning 'feeling').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sympathizer. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sympathizer
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