coexist

American  

[koh-ig-zist] / ˌkoʊ ɪgˈzɪst /

verb (used without object)

1. to exist together or at the same time.

2. to exist separately or independently but peaceably, often while remaining rivals or adversaries.

   Although their ideologies differ greatly, the two great powers must coexist.

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coexist British  

/ ˌkəʊɪɡˈzɪst /

verb

1. to exist together at the same time or in the same place

2. to exist together in peace

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Other Word Forms

• coexistence noun
• coexistent adjective

Etymology

Origin of coexist

First recorded in 1670–80; co- + exist

Explanation

To coexist is to live in the same place or at the same time. If you, your roommate, and a cat all live in an apartment together, you can say the three of you coexist. You can use the verb coexist to simply mean "exist together," or it can mean something more specific — to live peacefully or tolerantly in the same place. Two countries might have to work to find a way to coexist despite years of conflict, for example. The word has been around since the 1600's, but it wasn't used in this second, diplomatic way until 1931. Coexist combines exist, "be" or "live," with the prefix co, "together."

Example Sentences

The Qatari prime minister’s adviser, Majed Al Ansari, said Tuesday that Iran will remain a neighbor and therefore a way to coexist must be found, making it important to find a negotiated solution.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

For an island where finance and farming coexist, banknotes offer a quiet but revealing snapshot of how Jersey sees itself, its culture, and its priorities.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

How a former and sitting chair would coexist, how markets would interpret any disagreement between them, and how Warsh would assert authority in that environment are all open questions.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

Her experiences are almost mythic, like peering through the looking glass at a time when misery could actively coexist with unbridled bliss.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

That would spell the end of everything, unless the Mud People had learned to coexist with other species.

From "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer