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

Having whimpered out of World Cup contention, a maiden goal against the two-time world champions may be sufficient consolation for an Azerbaijan side low on morale. —Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Nov. 2025

As a consolation, though, Jack confirmed that the duo are very much still in close contact and spoke as recently as this week. —Devon Ivie, Vulture, 9 Nov. 2025

Gorst’s 2nd place finish still came with the consolation of a $50,000 payday. —Jeremy Herb, CNN Money, 6 Nov. 2025

Keith Cormican drew some consolation from not having to leave Bruce’s body in the cold river, unclaimed. —Jamie Thompson, The Atlantic, 6 Nov. 2025

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