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Definitions

consoling

[kuhn-soh-ling] / kənˈsoʊ lɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
comforting
Synonyms
STRONGEST
encouraging reassuring refreshing soothing
STRONG
abating allaying alleviating assuaging curing freeing inspiriting invigorating lightening mitigating relieving remedying restoring revitalizing revivifying softening solacing succoring sustaining tranquilizing upholding warming
WEAK
analeptic consolatory health-giving heart-warming
Antonyms
WEAK
aggravating depressing dispiriting distressing disturbing irritating upsetting worrying
ADJECTIVE
grateful
Synonyms
STRONGEST
acceptable favorable good gratifying
WEAK
agreeable comforting congenial delectable delicious delightful desirable pleasant pleasurable pleasureful refreshing rejuvenating renewing restful restorative restoring satisfactory satisfying solacing welcome
Antonyms
STRONGEST
bad disagreeable
WEAK
abusive heedless mean rude thankless unappreciative ungrateful
ADJECTIVE
soothing
Synonyms
STRONGEST
calming reassuring
STRONG
alleviating easing mollifying pacifying relaxing relieving remedying softening tranquilizing warming
WEAK
consolatory palliative
NOUN
encouragement
Synonyms
STRONGEST
assistance backing cheer comfort confidence consolation faith fortitude incentive inspiration optimism reassurance relief reward stimulation stimulus
STRONG
advance advocacy aid animation boost easement favor firmness helpfulness hope incitement invigoration promotion refreshment softening succor supporting trust urging
WEAK
enlivening inspiritment reassuring relieving shot in the arm solacing
Antonyms
STRONGEST
annoyance discouragement distrust doubt gloom hindrance hurt injury
STRONG
disbelief impediment
WEAK
denunciation derision deterrent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Viewers have been circulating clips of Wilson reaching for Batula’s hands in one scene and consoling her in the bathroom as she cried in another.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

A couple of years ago, Arlo Parks found herself in a nightclub, consoling a complete stranger.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

Soprano Hilary Cronin was a dazzling, lyrical Iole, her precisely calibrated da capo arias capturing the princess’s serene acceptance of her lot and her consoling, thoughtful presence—the antithesis of the disturbed Dejanira.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

He claimed that he began consoling a crying Minaj, only for her to start yelling at him.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 1, 2025

The children ran to console her, though they could have used some consoling themselves.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood

Vocabulary lists containing consoling

Umberto Eco (1932-2016) Tribute List

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