Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - solace

 I. transitive verb  (~d; solacing)  Date: 13th century  1. to give ~ to ; console  2.  a. to make cheerful  b. amuse  3. allay, soothe ~ grief  • ~ment noun  • ~r noun  II. noun  Etymology: Middle English solas, from Anglo-French, from Latin solacium, from solari to console  Date: 14th century  1. alleviation of grief or anxiety  2. a source of relief or consolation