compatibility

[ kuhm-pat-uh-bil-i-tee ]

noun

1. the natural ability to live or work together in harmony because of well-matched characteristics:

   In earlier times, love and compatibility were not the main considerations in finding a suitable spouse.

2. the quality or fact of being in agreement; consistency:

   Her essay questions the presumed compatibility of capitalism and democracy.

3. Computers. the ability to be used with a certain operating system or piece of hardware or software without the need for special adaptations:

   Before installing the application, check the compatibility of your device.

4. the ability to function or be integrated with other parts of any system, whether biological or technical:

   Terasaki devised the first tissue-typing method to assess the compatibility of organ donors and recipients.

Word History and Origins

Origin of compatibility¹

First recorded in 1605–15; equivalent to Medieval Latin compatibili(s) + Latin -tās; compatible ( def ), -ty ²( def )

Example Sentences

I am currently learning how to integrate secondhand video conferencing VOIP phones onto non-compatible platforms.

From Washington Blade

It’s also not clear how the master database will be compatible with the LGPD, the new data protection law.

From MIT Technology Review

In another difference, this year’s new phones are both compatible with superfast 5G Internet.

From Fortune

However, this level of immunity is not compatible with a full return to societal behavior as existed before the pandemic.

From MIT Technology Review

Whereas TuSimple is building its own trucks, Waymo is focused on developing a software platform, Waymo Driver, that’s compatible with anyone’s trucks.

From Singularity Hub 

The compatibility of these two activist First Ladies across the generations is incredibly strong.

From The Daily Beast

Reboots, remakes, and reimaginings are often about system compatibility—and money.

From The Daily Beast

People want to test their sexual compatibility before they move forward in our relationship.

From The Daily Beast

“An awful lot of people with money to invest may not have compatibility with what they buy,” Thompson notes.

From The Daily Beast

His compatibility with the domestic superwoman herself was “fabulous,” a site representative told him.

From The Daily Beast

I contract a tie which my reason tells me is based upon health and sanity and compatibility.

From Project Gutenberg

In this case difficulties lie in guessing the reliability of the devices and in achieving software compatibility.

From Project Gutenberg

Dr. Blake therefore suggests more study of the compatibility of scion to stock, especially in regard to growth and bearing.

From Project Gutenberg

It is above love, above compatibility, above even the priceless sense of humour.

From Project Gutenberg

What we think of now is moral and intellectual and physical compatibility; I mean, if we are reasonable people.'

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• rapport
• unity