consolation

noun

con·​so·​la·​tion ˌkän(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce consolation (audio)
Synonyms of consolationnext
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 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That their case is on appeal is of little consolation to a number of those recent evictees, some of whom are now for the first time experiencing homelessness. Max Klaver, Miami Herald, 31 Dec. 2025 James Neff scored his first varsity goal, and Austin Gaylord recorded his first career shutout in net as Archbishop Williams defeated Braintree 2-0 in the SS Holiday Classic consolation game. Tyler McManus, Boston Herald, 30 Dec. 2025 These little moments of autonomy are what brings comfort and consolation in death, and that affords some dignity for us. Malaka Gharib, NPR, 30 Dec. 2025 His daughters might find this to be a bitter-tasting irony, but the consolation is real—particularly for an actor like Nora, who eventually finds creative catharsis playing the part Gustav based on her. Susie Goldsbrough, The Atlantic, 28 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for consolation

Word History

Etymology

see console entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of consolation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Consolation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/consolation. Accessed 4 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

consolation

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

More from Merriam-Webster on consolation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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