[f. prec. adj., or latinized ad. F. compassionn-er after analogy of verbs in -ATE: cf. affectionate, and -ATE3 6.] trans. To regard or treat with compassion; to pity, commiserate (a person, or his distress, etc.).
1598. Marston, Pygmal., xxiv. 129. Pitty me, Compassionate my true loues ardencie.
a. 1670. Hacket, Abp. Williams, I. (1692), 35. The sick, of the comfortless, are most to be compassionated.
1729. Butler, Serm., Wks. 1874, II. 56. Men … naturally compassionate all … whom they see in distress.
1837. Ht. Martineau, Soc. Amer., III. 11. Countries whose political servitude the Americans justly compassionate.
absol. 1632. Massinger, Maid Hon., I. i. May persuade you Not alone to compassionate, but to lend Your royal aids.
