Here's a breakdown of its etymology:
* "Con-" is a prefix meaning "with" or "together".
* "Dolere" means "to grieve" or "to feel pain".
Therefore, condolence literally means "to grieve together" with someone who is experiencing sorrow.
The word has been used in English since the late 14th century, and it has evolved over time to encompass the act of offering comfort and sympathy to someone who is mourning.