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.
Rooms are in muted tones of grey, green, and dusky blue, and even the smallest have plenty of space with king-size beds and a table and chairs—the city views are more interesting, but the ones overlooking the courtyard have dinky Juliette balconies as a consolation. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Apr. 2026 Lauryn Kim homered and Kayla Cisneros, Addy Everett and Lizzie Hobbs each had two hits in Millikan’s 7-6 triumph over San Diego Cathedral in the consolation final. Steve Galluzzo, Los Angeles Times, 5 Apr. 2026 The Angels at least can take some consolation in the fact that Detmers was so good. Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 4 Apr. 2026 Undaunted, Tildsley rallied to capture consolation wins over Daniel Krutules of Georgia (9-3 decision), Israel Acosta of Washington (9-4 decision) and Noah Bull of Utah (15-1). Barry Scanlon, Boston Herald, 29 Mar. 2026 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 6 Apr. 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

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