Constancy

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈkɑnstənsi/

Definitions

1. The quality of being faithful, dependable, and unchanging in one's feelings, purpose, or actions over time
2. The state of remaining unwavering and loyal in commitment, belief, or affection despite changing circumstances
3. Steadfast adherence to a fixed purpose, principle, or emotional attachment without variation or deviation

Etymology: The Latin "constantia" grew from "constans," the present participle of "constare," which literally meant "to stand firm" or "to stand together." That physical image of standing fast underlies the modern sense of unwavering loyalty. Its root "stare" means "to stand," the same root found in "stand" itself, so the word's core meaning has always been about not moving. English borrowed the word directly from Latin "constantia," and the sense of steadfastness it carries in English reflects the Latin original. A useful way to see the word is as a relative of "constant," which shares the same participle and the same notion of standing firm through change.

Synonyms: stability, permanence, uniformity

Antonyms: instability, variability, change