consequence: Meaning and Definition of

con•se•quence

1. the effect, result, or outcome of something occurring earlier: The accident was the consequence of reckless driving.
2. an act or instance of following something as an effect, result, or outcome.
3. the conclusion reached by a line of reasoning; inference.
4. importance or significance: a matter of no consequence.
5. importance in rank or position; distinction: a man of great consequence in art.
6. consequently; as a result; hence: He withdrew from the world, and in consequence was forgotten.
7. as a result of; on account of: A trial was held in consequence of the investigation.