I. ˈkau̇n(t)-səl noun
Etymology: Middle English conseil, from Anglo-French cunseil, from Latin consilium, from consulere to consult
Date: 13th century
1.
a. : advice given especially as a result of consultation
b. : a policy or plan of action or behavior
2. : deliberation , consultation
3.
a. archaic : purpose
b. : guarded thoughts or intentions
4.
a. plural counsel
(1) : a lawyer engaged in the trial or management of a case in court
(2) : a lawyer appointed to advise and represent in legal matters an individual client or a corporate and especially a public body
b. : consultant 2
II. verb
( -seled or -selled ; -sel·ing or coun·sel·ling -s(ə-)liŋ)
Date: 14th century
transitive verb
: advise
counsel ed them to avoid rash actions — George Orwell
intransitive verb
: consult
counsel ed with her husband