consist

[kuhn-sist, kon-sist]

verb (used without object)

1. to be made up or composed (usually followed byof ).

   This cake consists mainly of sugar, flour, and butter.

2. to be comprised or contained (usually followed byin ).

   Her charm does not consist only in her beauty.

3. Archaic.,  to exist together or be capable of existing together.

4. Obsolete.,  to insist; urge.

noun

1. Railroads.

   1. the rolling stock, exclusive of the locomotive, making up a train.

   2. a record made of this rolling stock.

consist

/ kənˈsɪst /

verb

1. (foll by of) to be composed (of); be formed (of)

   syrup consists of sugar and water

2. to have its existence (in); lie (in); be expressed (by)

   his religion consists only in going to church

3. to be compatible or consistent; accord

Word History and Origins

Origin of consist¹

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin consistere “to stand together, stand firm,” from con- con- + sistere “to stand, cause to stand”; stand, stasis, status

Word History and Origins

Origin of consist¹

C16: from Latin consistere to halt, stand firm, from sistere to stand, cause to stand; related to stāre to _stand

Example Sentences

The Interior’s Peace said that the resources team never consisted of 30 full-time staffers, and that contractors also help get the work done.

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The Sweetener World tour in 2019 consisted of 101 shows across North America and Europe.

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Many of the current packs consist of just two wolves that are fairly young, which means they may not breed the first year.

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She’s wearing that principal gaze, the kind of face one might make if they’re reading an essay consisting of nothing but misspelled words.

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In addition to fresh vegetables, our dinners often consisted of chicken or meat loaf, beans, potatoes, and gravy.

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Related Words

• dwell 
• subsist