pathos

/pˈeɪθɑs/ · 2 syllables

Meaning

noun

1. a quality that arouses emotions (especially pity or sorrow)
   “the film captured all the pathos of their situation”
2. a feeling of sympathy and sorrow for the misfortunes of others
   “the blind are too often objects of pity”
3. a style that has the power to evoke feelings

Synonyms for pathos

• poignancy
• commiseration
• pity
• ruth