A sympathetic figure refers to someone who elicits understanding, kindness, or compassion from others because of their situation, struggles, or character traits. Full definition
But his appearance also suggests an innocence — an infancy, almost — which makes him an unexpectedly sympathetic figure. (christylemire.com)
Thanos is being billed as a much more sympathetic figure in Avengers: Infinity Wars than his comic book counterpart, and it's a change for the better. (cbr.com)
By this rationale, a well - educated, professional woman is not to be as sympathetic a figure as a waitress or factory worker who presumably works to make ends meet. (articles.chicagotribune.com)