noun / verb

solace

SAH-lus/sˈɑlʌs/

Comfort in sorrow or distress, or to give such comfort.

The tearful man finds solace in his older friend's steady embrace.

A tearful young man finds comfort in an older friend's steady embrace, resting against his shoulder while holding his hand.

Etymology

solaceLatinsoothing, comfort, consolation

Latin solacium named a soothing or easing of distress. Solace preserves that connection: it is comfort that softens grief or trouble, or something that brings such relief.

In context

Royal Tales47:18

I, your sister, request to be banished for the rest of my life. I shall find solace in a life of prayer and solitude.

I Was Ruined and Reborn in Shame, So I Used My Infamy to Rise and Make a Prince Marry Me

More examples

His friend's letter offers some solace after the funeral.
They take solace in knowing they did everything possible.
Memories of happier days solaced her through her illness.

Forms

solace · solaces · solaced · solacing

Similar words

comfort: Also covers physical ease, not just relief from emotional distress.
consolation: Often emphasizes relief after a particular loss or disappointment.
soothe: Emphasizes calming distress and can also describe easing physical pain.