English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adjective Uncommon

incompatible

ihng-kuhm-PA-tih-buhl

Incompatible (adjective) means Unable to exist, work, or coexist together due to fundamental differences. Example: “The new software is incompatible with older versions of the operating system.”

adjective
1
Unable to exist, work, or coexist together due to fundamental differences.
"The new software is incompatible with older versions of the operating system."
"Their personalities turned out to be completely incompatible."

How to use incompatible

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDoesn't fit or work together with something else.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
incompatible with mutually incompatible incompatible software

Word forms

more incompatible comparative, incompatibles plural, most incompatible superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “incompatible” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The new software is _____ with older versions of the operating system.

Etymology

Borrowed from French incompatible, from in- ("not") + compatible.

Origin: French

Related words

Rhymes for incompatible

See all rhymes for incompatible →

Frequently asked questions

What does “incompatible” mean?

The word “incompatible” means unable to exist, work, or coexist together due to fundamental differences. In plain terms, doesn't fit or work together with something else.

How do you pronounce “incompatible”?

“Incompatible” is pronounced ihng-kuhm-PA-tih-buhl (/ˌɪŋkəmˈpætɪbəl/ in IPA).

How do you use “incompatible” in a sentence?

Here is “incompatible” used in a sentence: “The new software is incompatible with older versions of the operating system.”

What is the opposite of “incompatible”?

The opposite of “incompatible” — its antonyms — is compatible.

What part of speech is “incompatible”?

“Incompatible” is an adjective.

Where does the word “incompatible” come from?

The word “incompatible” comes from French. Borrowed from French incompatible, from in- ("not") + compatible.

Is “incompatible” a common word?

“Incompatible” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Featured in

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial