consistency

American  

[kuhn-sis-tuhn-see] / kənˈsɪs tən si /

Also consistence

noun

plural

consistencies

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.

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consistency British  

/ 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

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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.

Example Sentences

"If you look at my game and my results and my consistency from 2022 through to now, I've been on a nice run," McIlroy said.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

“They lack the taste, consistency, and other physical characteristics associated by consumers with certified San Marzano Tomatoes,” the lawsuit states.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

Courts infer intent every day from what people do, from the consequences they know will follow, from patterns that repeat with such consistency that coincidence is no longer a plausible explanation.

From Slate • May 8, 2026

It creates consistency, which is what we deliver: low volatility plus a dividend.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

The water turned the consistency of shaved ice in blue sticky syrup.

From "The Son of Neptune" by Rick Riordan

Related Words

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