consist

[ verb kuhn-sist; noun kon-sist ]

verb (used without object)

1. to be made up or composed (usually followed by of ):

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

2. to be comprised or contained (usually followed by in ):

   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. foll byin or of 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

Using their new method, they were able to produce proteins consisting of up to 1000 amino acids.

From Science Daily

His paintings, unlike his drawings, consist largely of landscapes — nature scenes as well as overhead views of empty Austrian villages unperturbed by artists’ models or even the decently clothed.

From New York Times

In 2006, the late mogul Sumner Redstone split his media empire consisting of the cable channels and the Paramount film studio.

From Los Angeles Times

Small camps, usually consisting of 25-35 individuals living in homes a few feet from each other, create an environment where children can observe and interact with a wide range of people.

From Science Daily

"Lemongrass consists of a more floral and earthy aroma, while the other aromas are pungent, spicy or sweet," Loke said.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• dwell
• subsist