Sympathetic meaning

To be sympathetic means to show compassion and understanding towards others in difficult situations.


Sympathetic definitions

Word backwards citehtapmys
Part of speech Adjective
Syllabic division syn-pa-thet-ic
Plural The plural form of the word "sympathetic" is "sympathetics."
Total letters 11
Vogais (3) a,e,i
Consonants (7) s,y,m,p,t,h,c

Sympathetic is a term that describes the body's autonomic nervous system, responsible for the fight-or-flight response. This response prepares the body for action in stressful or dangerous situations.

Activation of the sympathetic nervous system leads to increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and the release of adrenaline, all of which help the body respond quickly to perceived threats.

Sympathetic Nervous System Function

The sympathetic nervous system works in opposition to the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and relaxation. When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, the body is prepared for action and is on high alert.

Effects of Sympathetic Activation

Some common effects of sympathetic activation include increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and heightened senses. Blood flow is redirected to the muscles to prepare for physical activity, while digestion is inhibited to conserve energy.

Chronic Sympathetic Activation

While the sympathetic nervous system is crucial for survival in threatening situations, chronic activation can have negative effects on health. Prolonged stress can lead to issues such as high blood pressure, insomnia, and anxiety.

Managing Sympathetic Activation

It is essential to find ways to manage and reduce sympathetic activation to maintain overall well-being. Techniques such as deep breathing, exercise, and mindfulness can help calm the body's response to stress and promote relaxation.

In conclusion, understanding the role of the sympathetic nervous system is key to managing stress and maintaining a healthy balance in the body. By practicing self-care and stress-reduction techniques, individuals can support their overall health and well-being.


Sympathetic Examples

  1. She displayed a sympathetic smile as she listened to her friend's story.
  2. The judge was known for being fair and sympathetic towards first-time offenders.
  3. The therapist offered a sympathetic ear to her patients dealing with loss.
  4. The teacher was sympathetic to the struggles of her students and provided extra help when needed.
  5. Despite their argument, he couldn't help but feel sympathetic towards her situation.
  6. The doctor was sympathetic to the pain the patient was experiencing and prescribed medication to help.
  7. The charity organization showed a sympathetic response to the victims of the natural disaster.
  8. The politician's speech struck a sympathetic chord with the audience, leading to increased support for his cause.
  9. His sympathetic nature made it easy for him to connect with others and offer help when needed.
  10. The character in the book was written to be sympathetic, evoking emotions of compassion from the readers.


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  • Updated 25/06/2024 - 00:40:20