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counsel definition

coun·sel (ko̵un′səl)

noun

  1. a mutual exchange of ideas, opinions, etc.; discussion and deliberation
    1. advice resulting from such an exchange
    2. any advice
    1. a lawyer or group of lawyers giving advice about legal matters and representing clients in court
    2. anyone whose advice is sought; consultant
  4. Archaic intention or resolution; purpose
  5. Archaic wisdom or judgment
  6. Obsolete a confidential idea, plan, etc.; secret

Etymology: ME & OFr counseil < L consilium (for base see consult); confused in ME with council

transitive verb counseled -·seled or counselled -·selled, counseling -·sel·ing or counselling -·sel·ling

  1. to give advice to; advise
  2. to urge the acceptance of (an action, plan, etc.); recommend

intransitive verb

to give or take advice
counsel Idioms

keep one's own counsel

to keep one's thoughts, plans, etc. to oneself

take counsel

to discuss and deliberate; exchange advice, opinions, etc.

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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