compassionate

[ adjective kuhm-pash-uh-nit; verb kuhm-pash-uh-neyt ]

adjective

1. having or showing compassion:

   a compassionate person; a compassionate letter.

   Synonyms: tender, sympathetic, pitying

2. granted in an emergency:

   compassionate military leave granted to attend a funeral.

3. Obsolete. pitiable.

verb (used with object)

, com·pas·sion·at·ed, com·pas·sion·at·ing.

1. Archaic. to pity or have compassion for.

compassionate

/ kəmˈpæʃənət /

adjective

1. showing or having compassion
2. compassionate leave
   leave granted, esp to a serviceman, on the grounds of bereavement, family illness, etc

Derived Forms

• comˈpassionately, adverb
• comˈpassionateness, noun

Other Words From

• com·passion·ate·ly adverb
• com·passion·ate·ness noun
• uncom·passion·ate adjective
• uncom·passion·ate·ly adverb
• uncom·passion·ate·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of compassionate¹

First recorded in 1580–90; compassion + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

The woman on the other end of the phone was Nicola Nash, a forensic researcher from the Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre in Gloucester, who ordinarily works to identify victims from the First and Second World Wars.

From BBC

“We are going to get tough on those that are dealing drugs. And we are going to be compassionate, but tough, about the conditions of our streets as well.”

From Los Angeles Times

He said the city’s office of homeless solutions is committed to addressing encampments “in a dignified and compassionate manner, connecting our most vulnerable residents with services while preserving the quality of life in our neighborhoods for all residents.”

From Los Angeles Times

At the time a DWP spokeswoman said: "We have always been clear this will be delivered in the most effective, compassionate way, with the right exceptions and safeguards in place."

From BBC

"While some respondents reported positive, skilful and compassionate care, it was clear that over 60% highlighted aspects of the care they received caused or amplified trauma," she said.

From BBC

Related Words

• benevolent
• charitable
• humane
• merciful
• sympathetic
• warm
• warmhearted