consistency
Americannoun
plural
consistencies-
a degree of density, firmness, viscosity, etc..
The liquid has the consistency of cream.
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steadfast adherence to the same principles, course, form, etc..
There is consistency in his pattern of behavior.
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agreement, harmony, or compatibility, especially correspondence or uniformity among the parts of a complex thing.
consistency of colors throughout the house.
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the condition of cohering or holding together and retaining form; solidity or firmness.
noun
-
agreement or accordance with facts, form, or characteristics previously shown or stated
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agreement or harmony between parts of something complex; compatibility
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degree of viscosity or firmness
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the state or quality of holding or sticking together and retaining shape
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conformity with previous attitudes, behaviour, practice, etc
Etymology
Origin of consistency
First recorded in 1585–95; consist(ent) + -ency
Explanation
Foods like puddings and gravies need to be the correct consistency — that is, the right thickness or texture — for the dish. It would not be good, for example, for gravy to have the consistency of cottage cheese. The noun consistency also refers to uniformity or compatibility between things or parts. For example, you might need to check the consistency of spelling in a document or the consistency among eye-witness accounts of a crime. Consistency usually implies a positive sense of dependability. If you show consistency at the work place, your manager can depend on you.
Vocabulary lists containing consistency
Declaration of the Rights of Woman (1791)
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Words to Know Before You Defrost the Bird
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Journalism
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Consistency is so important as you need to be nailing it every time and hold your nerve."
From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026
"Consistency is the key to any success," he said.
From BBC • Jan. 17, 2026
Consistency is the key to any restaurant’s longevity.
From Salon • Nov. 29, 2024
Consistency is crucial to maintaining exercise benefits, says Joseph.
From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 9, 2024
Consistency of the mores under polygamy or polyandry.
From Folkways A Study of the Sociological Importance of Usages, Manners, Customs, Mores, and Morals by Sumner, William Graham
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
