consonant

adjective

ˈkän(t)-s(ə-)nənt How to pronounce consonant (audio)
Definition of consonantnext
1
as in symmetrical
having the parts agreeably related the temples and palaces of ancient Greece are among the most consonant buildings in architectural history

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in consistent
not having or showing any apparent conflict his gentle behavior is consonant with his expressed belief in pacifism

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of consonant Researchers at Carleton University found that people with names like Renee, Liam or Noelle—which include soft, flowing consonant sounds—were more likely to be favored for certain roles over people with names like Greta, Tate or Krista, whose names contain harsher sounds. — Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Sep. 2025 The result is a slowly shifting kaleidoscope of bright, consonant sound, which, with its pointed title, easily digestible concept, and improvisatory spirit, was also a rejection of the cerebral atonality then in vogue. — William Robin, New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2025 Where the republic’s hypocrisy fed its fatal weakness, corruption, the Taliban’s unabashed brutality was consonant with the movement’s strength, its unity. — Matthieu Aikins Victor J. Blue Peter Ganim Krish Seenivasan Steven Szczesniak, New York Times, 22 May 2024 These would then subside into subdued textures marked by consonant harmonies. — Dallas News, 23 Feb. 2022 See All Example Sentences for consonant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for consonant
  1. symmetrical
  2. consistent
  3. harmonic
  4. compatible
  5. balanced
  6. elegant
  7. aesthetic
  8. pleasing
Adjective
  • How the gravitational field that the various spacecraft experienced changed over time differs substantially from what would be expected were Mars's interior perfectly spherically symmetrical.
    — Keith Cooper, Space.com, 31 Aug. 2026
  • Its oversized stone urns and four Doric columns, along with a Greek key frieze, give the symmetrical residence historic gravitas.
    — Mark David, Robb Report, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of symmetrical
Adjective
  • Other advantages of what Belkin is calling its BoostSolid Cell technology include a reduced risk of overheating that could cause swelling or fires and consistent power delivery across a wider temperature range.
    — Andrew Liszewski, The Verge, 3 Sep. 2026
  • Mechanics can easily calibrate and adjust system tension using an integrated clamping piece, ensuring consistent mechanical support throughout long operational cycles.
    — IEEE Spectrum, IEEE Spectrum, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of consistent
Adjective
  • But at times, the caliber of their technical and harmonic choices sounds arty and sophisticated.
    — Ernesto Lechner, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Mehldau takes special care to retain Smith’s idiosyncratic chord structures, accentuating his sublime harmonic feel.
    — Andrew Gilbert, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of harmonic
Adjective
  • The approach also keeps JR3 compatible with launchers already used by Army units.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Due to antibodies from previous transfusions and a transplant, finding a compatible second kidney was nearly impossible.
    — Maggie Menderski, Louisville Courier Journal, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of compatible
Adjective
  • Any business can run into cash-flow gaps — slow seasons, delayed invoice payments or unexpected costs can throw off even the most perfectly balanced budget.
    — Carson Brunson, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026
  • No need to worry about adding structure to your outfit; the combination of baggy jeans and the sharpness of your heels will naturally create a balanced uniform.
    — India Roby, Glamour, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of balanced
Adjective
  • Shop more outlet deals below, including an elegant candleholder, a luxe ottoman, and slim patio sofa.
    — Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Sep. 2026
  • The Queen size bed feels huge, there's plenty of light, sumptuous extra seating and an overall elegant Georgian style feel.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of elegant
Adjective
  • Channel design legend Frances Elkins by injecting your interiors with a peach moment or lean into the cottagecore aesthetic with a gingham print.
    — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Dash, 2026, the forty-seven-minute, two-channel essay-film at the project’s core, is filled with quiet, almost meditative scenes of machines tilling the land that initially conjure a faux-pastoral aesthetic register.
    — Pablo Larios, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of aesthetic
Adjective
  • The cabin interiors are built from a lovely blonde wood, which was aesthetically pleasing, if a little creaky at times, while the white linens on the comfortable queen bed were a subtle reminder that this is a luxury accommodation.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Stepping into unknown territory can feel especially pleasing today.
    — USA TODAY, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of pleasing

Browse Nearby Words

consonancy
consonant
consort
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Cite this Entry

“Consonant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/consonant. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on consonant

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about consonant

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