sympathizer

[sim-puh-thahy-zer]

noun

1. a person who sympathizes.

2. Ophthalmology.,  an eye that exhibits ophthalmia because of disease or injury of the other.

Other Word Forms

• nonsympathizer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sympathizer¹

First recorded in 1805–15; sympathize + -er ¹

Example Sentences

According to private analysts who track far-right extremist activities, the Active Club network has a core membership of 400 to 1,200 white men globally, plus sympathizers, online supporters and passive members.

From Salon

“There is no room in the United States for the rest of the world’s terrorist sympathizers, and we are under no obligation to admit them or let them stay here,” she said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times

I have not been completely immune from such accusations, but the terms that have been used to describe me are far more incendiary: “Traitor,” “turncoat” and “terrorist sympathizer.”

From Salon

Martin’s nomination for a permanent spot was pulled amid concerns raised by Republican senators over his connections to Nazi sympathizers and his legal defense of Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol rioters.

From Los Angeles Times

He was called a communist sympathizer, and political rivals vilified him.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ally 
• backer 
• collaborator 
• supporter 

When To Use

What does sympathizer mean?

Sympathizer most commonly refers to someone who is supportive of or loyal to someone or something, such as a leader or cause.The verb sympathize most commonly means to feel sympathy with someone—to share their emotions, especially sadness. This is usually understood to mean that you feel bad for them because they are in a negative situation. The word sympathizer can be used to mean someone who sympathizes in this way. It can also refer to someone who offers their sympathies or condolences, such as to someone who is in mourning.But sympathizer is especially used to refer to someone who identifies with, supports, or is sympathetic toward a certain cause. This sense of the word is usually used in a negative way to criticize such support, and often implies that such support is secret or at least not fully open. This is the way the word is used in the phrase Communist sympathizer.Example: We condemn not only the people directly responsible for these attacks but also their sympathizers.