compassionate

1 of 2

adjective

com·​pas·​sion·​ate kəm-ˈpa-sh(ə-)nət 

1

: having or showing compassion : sympathetic

a compassionate friend

a compassionate smile

2

: granted because of unusual distressing circumstances affecting an individual

—used of some military privileges (such as leave)

The soldier was granted compassionate leave following the death of his father.

compassionately adverb

compassionateness noun

compassionate

2 of 2

verb

com·​pas·​sion·​ate kəm-ˈpa-shə-ˌnāt 

compassionated; compassionating

transitive verb

: pity

… even compassionating those who hold in bondage their fellow men …

—John Quincy Adams

Synonyms of compassionate

Adjective

• benevolent
• kind
• humane
• sympathetic
• thoughtful
• gentle
• gracious
• friendly
• merciful

Verb

• pity

Examples of compassionate in a Sentence

Adjective

a compassionate person by nature

a compassionate smile made the refugees feel a little better

Verb

a gentle soul who could compassionate even the most reprobate of scoundrels and villains

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Perinatal palliative care is an important and compassionate option. — Arkansas Online, 3 Oct. 2026

Rodriguez described her daughter as kind, compassionate and full of life. — Lisa Hagen, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026

Family, friends and colleagues described Feldman as an amazing woman -- unconditionally accepting, active in her community, joyful, fun and compassionate. — Megan Fahrney, ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026

His story demonstrates that innovation in caregiving can make communities more compassionate, connected and responsive. — The Sacramento Bee Staff, Sacbee.com, 1 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

see compassion

Verb

see compassion

First Known Use

Adjective

1579, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1592, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing compassionate

• compassionate leave

Rhymes for compassionate

• dispassionate
• passionate