conformity

noun

con·​for·​mi·​ty kən-ˈfȯr-mə-tē 

plural conformities

1

: correspondence in form, manner, or character : agreement

behaved in conformity with their beliefs

2

: an act or instance of conforming

their conformity with the latest trends

3

: action in accordance with some specified standard or authority

conformity to social custom

conformity with the federal law and state insurance codes

Synonyms of conformity

• accordance
• harmony

Examples of conformity in a Sentence

The corporate culture demands a certain conformity of appearance.

the simple lifestyle of the Amish is in conformity with their ascetic religious beliefs

Recent Examples on the Web

Central to the reorganization is an institutional separation between standard setting and conformity assessment—the process used to determine whether a product, facility or company satisfies those standards. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 20 Aug. 2026

Such requirements can make conversations about significant moral issues – even controversial ones, like the morality of Mangione’s actions – little more than demands for conformity. — Evan Clarkson, The Conversation, 19 Aug. 2026

Organizations are losing vital talent by rewarding conformity over adaptability. — Glenn Llopis, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026

The sharp lyrics and title are embodied in the music itself, most notably in the relentless rhythm section, which reflects the endless pursuit of conformity and ambition that Smith criticizes. — Sophie Miller, Rolling Stone, 19 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for conformity

• deformity
• enormity
• disconformity
• nonconformity
• unconformity
• uniformity
• nonuniformity

Kids Definition

conformity

noun

con·​for·​mi·​ty kən-ˈfȯr-mət-ē 

plural conformities

1

: agreement in form, manner, or character

behaved in conformity with their beliefs

2

: action in accordance with a standard or authority : obedience

conformity to social custom