Ethos describe the principles or guiding values of a society, nation, or ideology. It is a Greek word which means “character”; thus, it shows the identity of an individual or a group through their core beliefs. For instance, the ethos in collective cultures usually emphasize respect and solidarity. In rhetoric, ethos is a mode of Ethos[a][b] is a Greek word meaning "character" that is used to describe the guiding beliefs or ideals that characterize a community, nation, or ideology; and the balance between caution and passion. [1] Ethos Definition What is ethos ? Here’s a quick and simple definition : Ethos , along with logos and pathos, is one of the three "modes of persuasion" in rhetoric (the art of effective speaking or writing). Ethos is an argument that appeals to the audience by emphasizing the speaker's credibility and authority. If the speaker has a high-ranking position, is an expert in his or her field, or has had life experience relevant to a particular topic, anything the speaker says or does to ensure ... Explore the definition of the word " ethos ," as well as its versatile usage, synonyms, examples, etymology, and more.