consolation prize

noun

1. a prize, usually of minor value, given to the loser or runner-up in a contest, competition, etc., or to all losers who have performed well or met certain standards.

consolation prize

noun

1. a prize given to console a loser of a game

Word History and Origins

Origin of consolation prize¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

If the FA Cup really is struggling to count as a consolation prize for Guardiola and City this season, you could have fooled everyone inside Vitality Stadium who watched him.

From BBC

“That was kind of our consolation prize,” Catherine said.

From Salon

A play-off spot would have been viewed as an unlikely consolation prize at the start of the season.

From BBC

The song is a bit of a consolation prize because she says, “What is this?” – their relationship, and he says, “I don’t know,” and she moves on and thinks, "Maybe I can get the song."

From Salon

She couldn’t see it as merely a consolation prize after losing the presidential election to Donald Trump.

From Los Angeles Times