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

• 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

And while Boca could not quite hang on for a point, there may be some consolation in having scored the goal of the tournament so far. —Jack Lang, New York Times, 21 June 2025

The consolation for Ortiz was getting into the Masters next year. —Doug Ferguson, Los Angeles Times, 16 June 2025

Of some consolation to the Angels, Kochanowicz was mostly sharp before the rain came. —Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 14 June 2025

The six-field facility will host quarterfinals on Tuesday and semifinals on Wednesday across all four classes, with consolation championships and third-place games played Thursday south of the metro. —Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 2 June 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