consistency

[ kuhn-sis-tuhn-see ]

noun

, plural con·sist·en·cies.

1. a degree of density, firmness, viscosity, etc.:

   The liquid has the consistency of cream.

2. steadfast adherence to the same principles, course, form, etc.:

   There is consistency in his pattern of behavior.

3. agreement, harmony, or compatibility, especially correspondence or uniformity among the parts of a complex thing:

   consistency of colors throughout the house.

4. the condition of cohering or holding together and retaining form; solidity or firmness.

consistency

/ kənˈsɪstənsɪ /

noun

1. agreement or accordance with facts, form, or characteristics previously shown or stated
2. agreement or harmony between parts of something complex; compatibility
3. degree of viscosity or firmness
4. the state or quality of holding or sticking together and retaining shape
5. conformity with previous attitudes, behaviour, practice, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of consistency¹

First recorded in 1585–95; consist(ent) + -ency

Example Sentences

“The kids needed some routine and structure and consistency, and families needed to go back to work.”

From Salon

Instead, McLaren emerged as a direct rival from the sixth race in Miami, from which point Verstappen had to focus on consistency to ensure he kept his margin.

From BBC

They are a collection of excellent individuals who are forever toiling to find the consistency of potential champions.

From BBC

The researchers also had to carefully warm up the mixture for several hours before slowly cooling it back down to make sure it was the right consistency.

From Science Daily

“What demographers call validation is actually just checking the consistency of documents,” he says.

From Science Magazine

Related Words

• coherence
• cohesion
• compatibility
• fitness
• harmony
• stability
• steadiness
• uniformity
• unity