English Lexicon

Condolences

/kənˈdoʊ.lən.sɪz/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    Expressions of sympathy and sorrow for someone else's misfortune, especially in the context of death.

    "She sent her condolences to the family after the loss."
  2. 2

    A formal expression of sympathy, often conveyed through a card or message.

    "He received many condolences from friends and colleagues."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'condolences' originates from the Latin 'condolere', meaning 'to suffer together'. It evolved through Middle French 'condoléance', which retained the sense of sharing in someone's grief, and entered English in the late 19th century.

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