Merriam-Webster's Collegiate® Dictionary, 11th Edition
COMFORT
I. transitive verb
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French cunforter, comforter, from Late Latin confortare to strengthen greatly, from Latin com- + fortis strong
Date: 13th century
to give strength and hope to ; cheer , to ease the grief or trouble of ; console , comfortingly adverb
II. noun
Date: 13th century
strengthening aid:, assistance , support , consolation in time of trouble or worry ; solace ,
2. a feeling of relief or encouragement, contented well-being , a satisfying or enjoyable experience, one that gives or brings comfort , comfortless adjective