coherence

noun

co·​her·​ence kō-ˈhir-ən(t)s  -ˈher- 

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

Synonyms of coherence

• symmetry
• orchestration
• proportion
• correlation
• harmony
• unity

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

At the same time, Iran and its partners have additionally embraced information warfare with far greater coherence than even the United States. —Gaurav Srivastava, The Washington Examiner, 19 Apr. 2026

This is critical for maintaining coherence in quantum systems during longer computations. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 14 Apr. 2026

Faster decision-making, greater policy coherence, and a better chance of pushing difficult reforms at a pivotal moment. —ABC News, 7 Apr. 2026

The report highlights a critical need for policy coherence as manufacturers face an increasingly fragmented environment of climate disclosures, greenhouse gas obligations, and labor frameworks. —Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 2 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

coher(ent) + -ence, after Latin cohaerentia

First Known Use

circa 1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for coherence

• adherence
• appearance
• preclearance
• clearance
• disappearance
• incoherence
• interference
• perseverance
• reappearance
• noninterference