DictionaryconsistencyThickness or firmness
noun

consistency

The degree of thickness or firmness of a substance.

The sauce has a thick consistency that coats the spoon.

Etymology

The Latin verb concerns standing firm or holding together. A substance’s consistency describes how firmly its parts hold together, ranging from fluid to thick or solid.

More examples

  • Add milk until the batter reaches a pourable consistency.
  • The clay has a soft consistency and bends easily.
  • These lotions come in different consistencies, from runny to thick.

Forms

consistency · consistencies

Similar words

thickness
Describes how dense or resistant to flowing a substance is.
texture
Includes qualities such as smoothness or graininess, not just firmness.
viscosity
Specifically measures a fluid's resistance to flowing under force.