# homogeneous

/ˌhoʊməˈdʒiniəs/ (US) · /həmˈəʊdʒniəs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/homogeneous
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. uniform in composition

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

describes a substance that is the same all the way through, with no different parts visible.

For teachers: consisting of parts all of the same kind; having a uniform composition throughout.

- The mixture was stirred until it became a homogeneous liquid.
- The alloy must be cooled slowly to ensure a homogeneous crystalline structure throughout the entire sample.

Usage: Commonly used in chemistry and physics to describe mixtures or materials.

### 2. alike or similar

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

describes a group of people or things that are all very similar to each other.

For teachers: of the same kind; alike; used to describe populations or groups with little internal variation.

- The neighborhood was very homogeneous, with most families having similar backgrounds.
- Sociologists noted that the village remained a remarkably homogeneous community, resistant to outside cultural influences for centuries.

Teaching tip: In social contexts, this word can sometimes imply a lack of diversity or variety.

### 3. mathematical properties

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical · Academic

describes an equation where all the parts have the same degree or power.

For teachers: relating to a function or equation where all terms are of the same degree, or where the equation equals zero.

- The students learned how to solve homogeneous linear equations in their algebra class.
- A homogeneous polynomial is one where every individual term has the same total degree, such as x squared plus y squared.

Usage: Used specifically in the context of polynomials and differential equations.

## Examples

- The neighborhood is a very homogeneous community.
- The mixture was stirred until it became a homogeneous liquid with no visible particles.
- Sociologists argue that a completely homogeneous society may lack the diverse perspectives necessary for rapid innovation and cultural evolution.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.