'sympathetic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'sympathetikos,' where 'sym-' meant 'together' and 'pathos' meant 'feeling.'

'sympathetikos' transformed into the Latin word 'sympathicus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sympathetic' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'having a fellow feeling,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'showing understanding and compassion.'