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Definition of counsel

counsel

/ˈkaʊn.səl/
coun · sel
Plural:counsels
•
Adjective:counselable
•
Past Simple:counseled
•
Past Participle:counseled
•
Present Participle:counseling
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counsel Lexical Profile

counsel Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Advice or guidance given systematically or formally, especially as a result of consultation.

Example

"The young entrepreneur sought wise counsel from seasoned industry veterans before launching the startup."

2

The lawyer or team of lawyers conducting a legal case or providing formal legal representation.

Example

"Defense counsel objected immediately to the prosecutor's line of questioning."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for counsel

• verb

1

To give formal, professional, or personal advice and guidance to someone.

Example

"Her academic advisor counseled her to complete an internship before applying to graduate school."

2

To recommend or urge a particular course of action or attitude.

Example

"The diplomat counseled caution and restraint during the delicate peace negotiations."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for counsel
Antonyms
View all antonyms for counsel

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'counsel' with its homophone 'council': 'counsel' functions as a noun meaning advice or a legal representative and as a verb meaning to advise, whereas 'council' is strictly a noun referring to an advisory or legislative body of people.

• Rhymes for counsel

• Nearby Words

councilman
councilor
councilwoman
counsel
counselee
counseling
counselor

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French 'conseil', from Latin 'consilium' (a plan, consultation, or advice), related to 'consulere' (to consult or deliberate).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Counsel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/counsel
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