Solace is comfort or relief during times of sadness, worry, or pain. When something brings you solace, it helps ease your troubled feelings, like a warm blanket on a cold night or a friend's reassuring words after a disappointment.

You might find solace in reading a favorite book after a difficult day at school, or take solace in knowing that your best friend understands what you're going through. Many people find solace in nature, feeling their worries lighten during a quiet walk in the woods. Others find solace in music, art, or spending time with people they trust.

The word can be a noun or a verb. As a noun: “She found solace in her grandmother's stories.” As a verb: “The coach's confidence in him helped solace him as he faced his fears about the big game.”

Solace doesn't make problems disappear, but it makes hard times more bearable. It's that feeling of “at least I have this” when everything else feels overwhelming. When you offer solace to someone, you're not necessarily fixing their problem, but you're reminding them they're not alone in facing it.