Counsel

/ˈkaʊnsel/

Meaning & Definition

noun
Advice or recommendations regarding prudent future actions.
She sought the counsel of her closest friends before making the decision.
The act of giving advice or guidance.
His counsel was invaluable during the negotiations.
A lawyer or group of lawyers giving legal advice and representing a client.
The defendant was represented by legal counsel throughout the trial.
verb
To give advice to someone.
The teacher counseled the student on how to improve her grades.
To recommend or advise a course of action.
They counseled against rushing into a decision.

Etymology

From Old French 'conseil', from Latin 'consilium' meaning 'advise, advice'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

legal counsel
Advice or representation from a lawyer.
counsel of perfection
Counsel that suggests the best possible action, often impractical.
take counsel
To seek advice or discuss an issue with someone.

Related Words

counselor
A person who gives advice or guidance.
consult
To seek information or advice from someone.
consultation
A meeting to discuss something or seek advice.

Slang Meanings

Advice or tips from friends.
He was looking for some counsel from the squad before making the big decision.
A group of friends providing informal guidance.
We had a group counsel about our plans for the weekend.