The adjective SYMPATHETIC has 6 senses: 1. of or relating to the sympathetic nervous system. 2. expressing or feeling or resulting from sympathy or compassion or friendly fellow feelings; disposed toward. 3. having similar disposition and tastes. 4. showing or motivated by sympathy and understanding and generosity. 5.(of characters in literature or drama) evoking empathic or sympathetic feelings. 6. relating to vibrations that occur as a result of vibrations in a nearby body. Familiarity information: SYMPATHETIC used as an adjective is common.. showing or motivated by sympathy and understanding and generosity. 5. (of characters in literature or drama) evoking empathic or sympathetic feelings. 6. relating to vibrations that occur as a result of vibrations in a nearby body. Familiarity information: SYMPATHETIC used as an adjective is common.