compatible
kuhm-PAT-uh-buhl
Compatible (adj) means Able to exist, work, or function together without conflict. Example: “Check that this software is compatible with your computer before you install it.”
adj
1
Able to exist, work, or function together without conflict.
"Check that this software is compatible with your computer before you install it."
"The new charger is compatible with most phone models."
"They discovered they were surprisingly compatible as roommates."
"This printer isn't compatible with my computer."
How to use compatible
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAble to work well alongside something or someone else.
Common pairings
compatible with
mutually compatible
fully compatible
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Word forms
- Plural
- compatibles
- Comparative
- more compatible
- Superlative
- most compatible
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Check that this software is _____ with your computer before you install it.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin compatibilis, from com- ("together") plus pati ("to suffer" or "to tolerate") — the same root as "patient."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
incompatible
noncompatible
Related words
Rhymes for compatible
See all rhymes for compatible →Frequently asked questions
What does “compatible” mean?
The word “compatible” means able to exist, work, or function together without conflict. In plain terms, able to work well alongside something or someone else.
How do you pronounce “compatible”?
“Compatible” is pronounced kuhm-PAT-uh-buhl (/kəmˈpæt.ə.bəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “compatible” in a sentence?
Here is “compatible” used in a sentence: “The new charger is compatible with most phone models.”
What is the opposite of “compatible”?
The opposite of “compatible” — its antonyms — are incompatible and noncompatible.
What part of speech is “compatible”?
“Compatible” is an adjective.
Where does the word “compatible” come from?
The word “compatible” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin compatibilis, from com- ("together") plus pati ("to suffer" or "to tolerate") — the same root as "patient.".
Is “compatible” a common word?
“Compatible” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What preposition follows 'compatible'?
'Compatible' is normally followed by 'with,' as in 'this charger is compatible with your phone.' It is not standard to follow it with 'to.'
What is the difference between 'compatible' and 'consistent'?
'Compatible' means able to exist or work together without conflict, often said of people, devices, or systems. 'Consistent' means unchanging or in agreement with itself; two things can be consistent with each other, but 'compatible' more strongly implies they actively function well together.
What is the difference between 'compatible' and 'suitable'?
'Suitable' means right or appropriate for a purpose, judged on its own. 'Compatible' specifically means able to work or exist together with something else without conflict, so it always involves a relationship between two or more things.
Can 'compatible' describe people as well as devices?
Yes. 'Compatible' applies to people who get along well or share values, as in 'a compatible couple,' and to devices or software that work together without conflict, such as 'compatible file formats.'
