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.
The Federal Reserve uses a method that at least benefits from clarity and consistency.
From Barron's • May 14, 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
Flick has also shown a strong willingness to rotate and trust squad players, which has helped Barcelona maintain intensity and consistency across a demanding season.
From BBC • May 11, 2026
Frequently, the story ditches consistency for a cheap gag.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026
The painter had poured water from the duck’s bill onto a stone a single drop at a time, mixing ink to exactly the correct consistency for his work.
From "A Single Shard" by Linda Sue Park
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.
