constant
KON-stunt
/ˈkɒnstənt/
Occurring continuously over a period of time; remaining the same; a situation or value that does not change.
A very versatile word. In science/math, it's a fixed value. In life, it can mean either 'frequent' (constant noise) or 'faithful' (a constant companion).
The story behind the word. The Latin 'constare' literally meant 'to stand together.' If something stands together, it doesn't fall apart or change; it remains a solid, reliable whole. This evolved into the idea of something that remains firm and unchanging through time.
Word relationships
- continual: Continual means starting and stopping frequently; constant means never stopping at all.
- uniform: Uniform means staying the same in form or manner, while constant focuses on staying the same over time.
- variable: Variable describes something that changes or can be changed.
- erratic: Erratic describes something that is not regular or consistent.
Commonly confused with
- consistent: Consistent means acting in the same way over time; constant means never stopping or changing.
Word family
- constancy (noun): The quality of being faithful and dependable.
- constantly (adverb): All the time; repeatedly.
Collocations
- constant pressure
- constant reminder
- constant companion
- mathematical constant
Example sentences
- "The speed of light in a vacuum is a physical constant, denoted by the letter 'c'." Science
- "Change is the only constant in life, a paradox that reminds us to stay adaptable." Personal Life
Memory hook
Think of a 'con' (with) 'stant' (stand)—standing with someone forever. Constant = Standing firm.
When not to use
In formal writing, avoid using 'constant' when you really mean 'frequent' or 'often.'
Fun facts
- In the 18th century, 'constant' was a popular name for both boys and girls, representing the virtue of faithfulness.
Explore more words
continual, continually, perpetual, steady, incessant, continuously
Also appears in
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.