Condolences

/kənˈdoʊlənsəz/ noun

Definition

Expressions of sympathy and sadness, especially to someone who has experienced a loss or tragedy.

Etymology

From Latin 'condolere' (to grieve together), combining 'con-' (with) and 'dolere' (to suffer or grieve). The word entered English in the 16th century as a formal term for shared sorrow.

Kelly Says

Condolences literally means 'suffering together'—it's one of the few emotions that humans actively want to share with others, and almost every culture has specific rituals around offering them.

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