Definitions

compassionate

[kuhm-pash-uh-nit, kuhm-pash-uh-neyt] / kəmˈpæʃ ə nɪt, kəmˈpæʃ əˌneɪt /

ADJECTIVE

having tender feelings

Synonyms

STRONGEST

benevolent charitable humane merciful sympathetic warm warmhearted

STRONG

forbearing pitying sparing tender understanding

WEAK

all heart being big bleeding-heart commiserative going easy on humanitarian indulgent kindhearted kindly lenient living with old softie piteous responsive soft-shell softhearted tenderhearted

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cold cool cruel inhumane malevolent mean merciless uncaring unfeeling unfriendly unkind unsympathetic

STRONG

intolerant

WEAK

hard harsh hateful indifferent tyrannous

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Here’s hoping that “Dad Brain” launches us toward rigorous studies and compassionate interpretations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 19, 2026

A whole life order means that Varley will never be released from prison, except in exceptional compassionate circumstances.

From BBC • Jun. 18, 2026

Young people spoke positively about members of staff, describing their approach to care as "compassionate", "empathetic" and "positive".

From BBC • Jun. 17, 2026

“We could have, like, a lot more of a compassionate view on the unhoused population and those adjacent,” Archie-Winston said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

He was compassionate and kind, and hearing of others’ hardships affected him so much that usually he couldn’t stop himself from doing something to help.

From "The Book of Unknown Americans" by Cristina Henríquez

Vocabulary lists containing compassionate

Be Nice!

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Positive Adjectives to Describe People

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"The Diary of Anne Frank," Vocabulary from the drama

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!