Meaning & Definition of word "Consensus"

Consensus

/kənˈsɛnsəs/

noun:

  • 1. A general agreement or collective opinion among a group.
    • Example: After much discussion, the committee reached a consensus on the new policy.
  • 2. An agreement in judgment or opinion reached by a group as a whole.
    • Example: The consensus in the scientific community is that climate change is a pressing issue.
  • 3. Majority opinion or harmony among members of a group.
    • Example: There was a clear consensus among the voters on the need for change.
  • 4. The result of a process of discussion and collaboration among a group.
    • Example: The town hall meeting sought to achieve a consensus regarding the development project.

Etymology

Latin 'consensus', meaning 'agreement, accord'

Common Phrases and Expressions

general consensus:

The overall agreement or opinion of a group.

reach a consensus:

To come to a collective agreement.

consensus decision:

A decision made by general agreement rather than by majority vote.

Related Words

agreement:

A state of harmony or accordance.

protocol:

A formal agreement or treaty.

compromise:

An agreement or settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions.

Slang Meanings of consensus

Meaning: Groupthink

Example Sentence: They all just went along with the groupthink without questioning it.

Meaning: Team spirit

Example Sentence: The team spirit was so strong, we all reached a consensus quickly.