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

Infanta had some consolation, however, in her role as Spain’s flag bearer during the opening ceremony. —Stefania Conrieri, Vanity Fair, 5 Feb. 2026

In the 62nd minute, Elanga scored a consolation with a wonderful solo strike, slaloming in from the left and curling in via the far post — Newcastle’s first goal at the Etihad since September 2018, following seven visits without scoring. —Chris Waugh, New York Times, 5 Feb. 2026

In the last few weeks, our family took some consolation thinking that perhaps Nay's death would bring about change in our country. —Wcco Staff, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2026

Luke Ganger said their family had taken some consolation in the thought that his sister’s death might spark a change. —Andrea Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 3 Feb. 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