a small table fixed to a wall or designed to stand against a wall
"She placed her favorite vase on the narrow console that runs along the hallway wall."
a scientific instrument consisting of displays and an input device that an operator can use to monitor and control a system (especially a computer system)
"The technician adjusted the settings on the main console to stabilize the server's temperature after it began overheating."
an ornamental scroll-shaped bracket (especially one used to support a wall fixture)
"the bust of Napoleon stood on a console"
A stand-alone cabinet designed to stand on the floor; especially, one that houses home entertainment equipment, such as a TV or stereo system.
"We need to buy a new console to fit our large flat-screen television in the living room."
In plain English: A console is a computer you plug into a TV to play video games.
"He kept an old wooden console in the corner of his living room."
Usage: Use "console" as a noun to refer specifically to a freestanding entertainment cabinet, such as a TV or stereo unit, rather than using it for general devices like laptops or tablets. This term distinguishes the floor-standing furniture from portable computers or handheld gaming systems.
To comfort (someone) in a time of grief, disappointment, etc.
"She tried to console her friend after hearing about his lost job by sitting quietly beside him and holding his hand."
In plain English: To console someone means to comfort them when they are sad or upset.
"She tried to console her friend after the bad news."
Usage: Use console as a verb to mean offering comfort or solace to someone who is grieving or disappointed. You would say, "I tried to console my friend after she lost her job," rather than using it for technical support.
The word console entered English from French, where it originally referred to an architectural bracket designed to support weight or decorated with figures of comforters. Over time, the meaning shifted from this structural element to describe the furniture pieces-such as wall-mounted and free-standing tables-that utilize such brackets for support.