consolation prize

American  

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.

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consolation prize British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of consolation prize

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

That’s the consolation prize for losing the entire U.S. government as a customer.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

This is what a consolation prize feels like.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 30, 2025

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

From BBC • Jan. 29, 2025

Leftovers became less a consolation prize and more a creative challenge.

From Salon • Nov. 30, 2024

He had hoped that this consolation prize would settle Minerva happily in Ojo de Agua.

From "In the Time of the Butterflies" by Julia Alvarez