Ethos/ˈiːθɑːs/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Group Beliefs Understand ethos as the collective personality of a group. The volunteer organization's ethos emphasizes community support. Pro Tip 2/3Societal Values Ethos can describe the underlying values that give a society its identity. The ethos of democracy is evident in the society's inclusive practices. Pro Tip 3/3Shared Vision Ethos may refer to a shared vision or goal that unites a group. The company's green ethos drives its environmental initiatives.