Console, v. t. [imp. & p.p. Consoled; p.pr. & vb.n. Consoling.]
Etymology: [L. consolari,. p.p. consolatus; con- + solari to console, comfort: cf. F. consoler. See Solace.]
To cheer in distress or depression; to alleviate the grief and raise the spirits of; to relieve; to comfort; to soothe. And empty heads console with empty sound. Pope. I am much consoled by the reflection that the religion of Christ has been attacked in vain by all the wits and philosophers, and its triumph has been complete. P. Henry.
Syn. -- To comfort; solace; soothe; cheer; sustain; encourage; support. See Comfort.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Console, n.
(Arch.) (a) A bracket whose projection is not more than half its height. (b) Any small bracket; also, a console table. Console table, a table whose top is supported by two or more consoles instead of legs.
Shades of meaning
One condoles with another by the expression of kindly sympathy in his trouble; he consoles him by considerations adapted to soothe and sustain the spirit, as by the assurances and promises of the gospel; he encourages him by the hope of some relief or deliverance; he comforts him by whatever act or word tends to bring mind or body to a state of rest and cheer. We sympathize with others, not only in sorrow, but in joy. Compare alleviate; pity.