consistency

noun

con·​sis·​ten·​cy kən-ˈsi-stən(t)-sē How to pronounce consistency (audio)
plural consistencies
1
a
: agreement or harmony of parts or features to one another or a whole : correspondence
The furnishings and decorations in all the rooms reflect a consistency of style.
specifically : ability to be asserted together without contradiction
b
: harmony of conduct or practice with profession
followed her own advice with consistency
2
: degree of firmness, density, viscosity, or resistance to movement or separation of constituent particles
Boil the juice to the consistency of a thick syrup.
3
a
: firmness of constitution or character : persistency
… the rigid consistency with which he had adhered to its principles …Nathaniel Hawthorne
b
archaic : condition of adhering together : firmness of material substance

Examples of consistency in a Sentence

His statements on this subject have lacked consistency. Customers expect consistency in the quality of service they receive. Practice will ensure greater consistency of performance. The paints vary in consistency.
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.
What’s nice about this product in particular, is its light consistency. Cierra Black, Essence, 30 June 2025 Carb consistency: Carbohydrates impact blood sugar more than protein and fat. Kathleen Daly, Verywell Health, 30 June 2025 Higher fat allows dairy products to taste richer and gives a creamier consistency. Mercey Livingston, SELF, 30 June 2025 That production was assisted by the consistency of quarterback Brady Cook, who started 25 games over the past two seasons and threw for more than 5,800 yards and 32 touchdowns during that stretch. Zach Sweet, Kansas City Star, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for consistency

Word History

Etymology

consist(ence) + -ency

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 3b

Time Traveler
The first known use of consistency was in 1594

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Cite this Entry

“Consistency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/consistency. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

consistency

noun
con·​sis·​ten·​cy kən-ˈsis-tən-sē How to pronounce consistency (audio)
plural consistencies
1
: the degree of thickness, firmness, or stickiness
dough of the right consistency
2
: agreement or harmony between parts or elements
3
: a sticking with one way of thinking or acting

More from Merriam-Webster on consistency

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