Counsel  —n. 1 advice, esp. Formally given. 2 consultation for advice. 3 (pl. Same) legal adviser, esp. A barrister; body of these. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 advise (a person). 2 give esp. Professional advice to (a person) on personal problems. 3 recommend (a course of action).  keep one's own counsel not confide in others. Take counsel (usu. Foll. By with) consult.  counselling n. [latin consilium]