Coherent

/koʊˈhɪərənt/

adjectiveIntermediate📊CommonLogic
1 meaning1 question

Definitions

1

Logical and consistent; forming a unified whole.

/koʊˈhɪərənt/

adjectivepositiveIntermediate
Logic

Logically connected; consistent.

His speech was clear and coherent.

💡 Simply: Imagine a puzzle where all the pieces fit perfectly together; that's what 'coherent' means. A coherent story is easy to follow because all parts make sense.

👶 For kids: All the pieces fit together perfectly, like a LEGO castle!

More Examples

2

The plan lacked coherence.

How It's Used

Academic Writing

"The essay presented a coherent argument, supported by strong evidence."

Science

"The theory provides a coherent explanation for the observed phenomena."

From Latin cohaerēre "to stick together," from co- "together" + haerēre "to stick."

The word has been used in a similar sense since the 17th century, primarily in academic and philosophical contexts.

Memory tip

Think of 'co' (together) and 'here' (in place) - everything is together in its proper place.

Word Origin

Original meaning

"to stick together"

coherent argumentcoherent narrativecoherent system

Common misspellings

coherrantcohherentcohearant

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written