coherence

noun

co·​her·​ence kō-ˈhir-ən(t)s How to pronounce coherence (audio) -ˈher- How to pronounce coherence (audio)
1
: the quality or state of cohering: such as
a
: systematic or logical connection or consistency
The essay as a whole lacks coherence.
b
: integration of diverse elements, relationships, or values
"The various parts of this house—discrete in color, in shape, in placement—join together with remarkable coherence."Paul Goldberger
2
: the property of being coherent
a plan that lacks coherence

Examples of coherence in a Sentence

the house has been expanded and remodeled so many times that now it's a jumbled mess that lacks coherence
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the wisdom economy, value is measured in presence, intimacy and coherence. Chris Schembra, Rolling Stone, 30 July 2025 Research in adaptive performance supports the idea that healthy systems evolve through tight feedback loops and behaviorally grounded coherence—not through rigid control. Scott Hutcheson, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025 Twist after twist keeps the story constantly in motion, at the expense of both texture and basic coherence, until the season ends on an oddly open note — less hanging over a cliff than trailing off into the ether. Alison Herman, Variety, 21 July 2025 Progress on regulatory reform and planning coherence will be key to sustaining investment. Angelica Krystle Donati, Forbes.com, 17 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for coherence

Word History

Etymology

coher(ent) + -ence, after Latin cohaerentia

First Known Use

circa 1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of coherence was circa 1580

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Cite this Entry

“Coherence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coherence. Accessed 3 Aug. 2025.

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