consoling

[kuhn-soh-ling]

adjective

1. alleviating or lessening grief, sorrow, or disappointment; giving comfort.

   He gave his companion a consoling clap on the shoulder.

   The consoling power of the book arises not so much from the humor as from the detail with which the author renders his world.

Other Word Forms

• consolingly adverb
• nonconsoling adjective
• nonconsolingly adverb
• self-consoling adjective
• unconsoling adjective
• unconsolingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of consoling¹

consol(e) ¹ ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Martinez had not only failed to help Baker, but had urged Blalock to “finish him off” and then posed as a consoling friend to the grieving family.

From Los Angeles Times

This final turn is less consoling or condemnatory than darkly revealing about our assumptions about Michaela, who's portrayed as a controlling fury for most of the story.

From Salon

Former Sheriff Alex Villanueva, who has become increasingly popular in right-wing circles online, has also championed Kirk’s case, posting an Instagram video of himself and Wilson consoling the deputy at the courthouse after trial.

From Los Angeles Times

Wilson and Villanueva both attended, later posting a joint social media video of themselves consoling the distraught deputy after he was found guilty.

From Los Angeles Times

Former Sheriff Alex Villanueva, who has become increasingly popular in right-wing circles online, has also championed Kirk’s case, posting Instagram video of himself and Wilson consoling the deputy at the courthouse after trial.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• assistance 
• backing 
• cheer 
• comfort 
• confidence 
• consolation 
• faith 
• fortitude 
• incentive 
• inspiration 
• optimism 
• reassurance 
• relief 
• reward 
• stimulation 
• stimulus