{ , n. [ Cf. F. consistance. ] 1. The condition of standing or adhering together, or being fixed in union, as the parts of a body; existence; firmness; coherence; solidity. [ 1913 Webster ] Water, being divided, maketh many circles, till it restore itself to the natural consistence. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ] We are as water, weak, and of no consistence. Jer. Taylor. [ 1913 Webster ] The same form, substance, and consistency. T. Burnet. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. A degree of firmness, density, viscosity, or spissitude; a measure of the ability to hold together when manipulated.
Syn. -- body. [ 1913 Webster ] Let the expressed juices be boiled into the consistence of a sirup. Arbuthnot. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. That which stands together as a united whole; a combination. [ 1913 Webster ] The church of God, as meaning the whole consistence of orders and members. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. Firmness of constitution or character; substantiality; durability; persistency. [ 1913 Webster ] His friendship is of a noble make and a lasting consistency. South. [ 1913 Webster ] 5. Agreement or harmony of all parts of a complex thing among themselves, or of the same thing with itself at different times; the harmony of conduct with profession; congruity; correspondence; as, the consistency of laws, regulations, or judicial decisions; consistency of opinions; consistency of conduct or of character. [ 1913 Webster ] That consistency of behavior whereby he inflexibly pursues those measures which appear the most just. Addison. [ 1913 Webster ] Consistency, thou art a jewel. Popular Saying. [ 1913 Webster ] Variants: Consistence | 
