■ noun
1》 advice, especially that given formally.
↘ archaic consultation.
2》 ( plural same) a barrister or other legal adviser conducting a case.
■ verb ( ~s , ~ling , ~led ; US ~s , ~ing , ~ed )
1》 give advice to.
↘recommend (a course of action).
2》 [often as noun ~ling ] give professional help and advice to (someone) to resolve personal, social, or psychological problems.
Phrases
a ~ of despair an action to be taken when all else fails.
a ~ of perfection advice that is ideal but not feasible.
keep one's own ~ not confide in others.
take ~ discuss a problem.
Origin
ME: via OFr. counseil (n.), conseiller (v.), from L. consilium 'consultation, advice', related to consulere (see consult ); cf. council .