stream of consciousness

noun phrase

1
: the continuous unedited chronological flow of conscious experience through the mind
2
: interior monologue

Examples of stream of consciousness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The Sound and The Fury Told by four narrators in a stream of consciousness writing style, this 1929 story describes the downfall of a wealthy Southern aristocratic family, the Compsons. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 25 June 2026 The poem’s narrative frequently shifts between different speakers and languages, and Eliot employed a range of styles and techniques, including free verse and stream of consciousness. — René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 June 2026 Your story today was effectively a stream of consciousness rant with a bunch of screenshots. — Zach Dean Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 June 2026 The song just came to me, from somewhere, populating seamlessly in a stream of consciousness. — Wyatt Williams, Harpers Magazine, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for stream of consciousness

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of stream of consciousness was in 1855

Rhymes for stream of consciousness

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Browse Nearby Words

streamliner
stream of consciousness
stream orchid
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Cite this Entry

“Stream of consciousness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stream%20of%20consciousness. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

stream of consciousness

noun
: the continuous unedited flow of conscious experience through the mind

More from Merriam-Webster on stream of consciousness

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about stream of consciousness

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