consolation

noun

con·​so·​la·​tion ˌkän(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən 

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

consolatory

kən-ˈsō-lə-ˌtȯr-ē 

-ˈsä-

adjective

Synonyms of consolation

• comforting
• reassurance
• consoling
• solace
• sympathy
• compassion

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 two options create different experiences around the same dish without treating the alcohol-free pairing as a consolation. — Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

Even the bronze medal match, a consolation for the semifinal losers, was thrilling. — Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 20 July 2026

Then-Real Madrid playmaker Isco bagged a hat-trick while Nicolas Otamendi, who could feature on Sunday, got Argentina’s consolation. — Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 20 July 2026

The Celtics closed out their NBA Summer League campaign with a 103-97 consolation-game loss to the Orlando Magic on Saturday at the Thomas & Mack Center. — Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 18 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

see console entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing consolation

• consolation prize
• if it's any consolation

Rhymes for consolation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

consolation

noun

con·​so·​la·​tion ˌkän(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: the act or an instance of consoling : the state of being consoled

2

: something that consoles

consolatory

kən-ˈsōl-ə-ˌtōr-ē, 

-sä-lə-, 

-ˌtȯr-

adjective