# consoling

/kənˈsoʊɫɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈɒnsəʊlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/consoling
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

making you feel better when you are sad or upset. You use it for kind words, hugs, or actions that comfort you.

For teachers: providing comfort or reassurance to someone who is sad or disappointed. Often describes words, gestures, or presence that reduce distress.

## Examples

- She gives her friend a consoling hug.
- After the team loses the final, the coach offers consoling words to the disappointed players.
- There was something consoling about the familiar kitchen sounds drifting upstairs while she studied late into the night.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; also follows linking verbs such as 'be' or 'feel'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.