1 consolation | Definition of consolation

consolation

noun
con·​so·​la·​tion | \ ˌkän(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce consolation (audio) \

Definition of consolation

1 : the act or an instance of consoling : the state of being consoled : comfort She found great consolation in all the cards and letters she received.
2 : something that consoles specifically : a contest held for those who have lost early in a tournament

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Other Words from consolation

consolatory \ kən-​ˈsō-​lə-​ˌtȯr-​ē How to pronounce consolatory (audio) , -​ˈsä-​ \ adjective

Examples of consolation in a Sentence

His kind words were a consolation to me. the consolation of the grieving family by their pastor

Recent Examples on the Web

The Indians at Jamul have one consolation, however. San Diego Union-Tribune, "From the Archives: Jamul Indian Village grew at cemetery site," 6 Aug. 2019 Solace Provide comfort and consolation for any emotions and fears to help kids feel secure. Sonja Haller, USA TODAY, "Talking to kids about El Paso, Dayton shootings? Use the 4 S's to discuss cruel violence," 4 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'consolation.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of consolation

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for consolation

see console entry 2

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More Definitions for consolation

consolation

noun

English Language Learners Definition of consolation

: something that makes a person feel less sadness, disappointment, etc.
: a contest in which people or teams that have previously lost compete against each other

consolation

noun
con·​so·​la·​tion | \ ˌkän-sə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce consolation (audio) \

Kids Definition of consolation

1 : something that lessens disappointment, misery, or grief … he would never be the best runner … and his only consolation was neither would Gary Fulcher.— Katherine Paterson, Bridge to Terabithia
2 : the act of comforting or the state of being comforted

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