Langimage
English

condolences

|con/do/lences|

B2

🇺🇸

/kənˈdoʊ.lənsɪz/

🇬🇧

/kənˈdəʊ.lənsɪz/

(condolence)

sympathy for loss

Base FormPlural
condolencecondolences
Etymology
Etymology Information

'condolence' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'condolere,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'dolere' meant 'to grieve.'

Historical Evolution

'condolere' transformed into the French word 'condoléance,' and eventually became the modern English word 'condolence' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to grieve together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'expressions of sympathy.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

expressions of sympathy, especially on the occasion of a death.

She sent her condolences to the family.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40