Consolation, n.
Etymology: [L. consolatio: cf. F. consolation.]
The act of consoling; the state of being consoled; allevation of misery or distress of mind; refreshment of spirit; comfort; that which consoles or comforts the spirit. Against such cruelties With inward consolations recompensed. Milton. Are the consolations of God small with thee Job xv. 11.
Syn. -- Comfort; solace; allevation. See Comfort.
CONSOLATION GAME; CONSOLATION MATCH; CONSOLATION POT; CONSOLATION RACE Con`so*la"tion game, match, pot, race, etc.
A game, match, etc., open only to losers in early stages of contests.
Shades of meaning
Fernald lists consolation only as an antonym, under misfortune.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.
Synonyms
none given