Empathy & Connection Vocabulary

the ability to understand and share the feelings of another

“Empathy allows us to build deeper connections with others.”

Origin: Greek 'empatheia' (physical affection, passion), from 'en' (in) + 'pathos' (feeling)

sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others

“Her compassion drove her to volunteer at the shelter.”

Origin: Latin 'compati' (suffer with)

a close and harmonious relationship in which the people or groups concerned understand each other's feelings or ideas and communicate well

“The salesman quickly built rapport with the client.”

Origin: French 'rapport' (relationship, harmony)

the ability to evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions

“The poem has a deep emotional resonance for many readers.”

Origin: Latin 'resonantia' (echo)

the quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally

“True intimacy requires vulnerability.”

Origin: Latin 'vulnerabilis' (wounding)

unity or agreement of feeling or action, especially among individuals with a common interest

“They stood in solidarity with the striking workers.”

Origin: French 'solidarité' from 'solidaire' (interdependent)

the practice of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit

“Friendships rely on the principle of reciprocity.”

Origin: Latin 'reciprocus' (moving backward and forward)