commiseration

[ kuh-miz-uh-rey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of empathizing, or expressing sympathy or sorrow for someone about something:

   Taking the seat next to him, she put her arm around his shoulders in silent commiseration.

2. commiserations, an expression of sympathy or sorrow for someone:

   All my thanks and commiserations to the dedicated staff, many of whom I expect will lose their jobs in the cutbacks.

Other Words From

• non·com·mis·er·a·tion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of commiseration¹

First recorded in 1570–80; commiserat(e) ( def ) + -ion ( def )

Example Sentences

A celebration of Black women, and a ticked-off commiseration for all the nonsense thrown their way, it names a host of psychic poisons and puts them on display.

From New York Times

But it’s also a forum for animated commiseration about the state of gun regulation in California.

From Los Angeles Times

This version of commiseration is distinct from the GOP's long-successful strategy of falling in line behind those knighted by their leadership, including Kelly and Carlson's former employer.

From Salon

Charles, who was attending church near Balmoral with the Queen during the match, also sent his thoughts and commiserations to the team.

From BBC

Charles had urged the Lionesses to “roar to victory” in a social media post before the game, and offered his commiserations after the loss.

From Washington Times