compatible

[kuhm-pat-uh-buhl]

adjective

1. capable of existing or living together in harmony.

   the most compatible married couple I know.

2. able to exist together with something else.

   Prejudice is not compatible with true religion.

3. consistent; congruent (often followed bywith ).

   His claims are not compatible with the facts.

4. Botany.,  (of two or more different plant species or cultivars) capable of cross-pollinating.

   These varieties of apple trees are quite distinct one from the other, but they are compatible, with each one’s pollen fertilizing the other’s flowers.

5. Computers.

   1. (of software) capable of being run on another computer without change.

   2. (of hardware) capable of being connected to another device without the use of special equipment or software.

6. Electronics.,  (of a device, signal, etc.) capable of being used with equipment in a system without the need for special modification or conversion.

7. noting a system of television in which color broadcasts can be received on ordinary sets in black and white.

noun

1. something, as a machine or piece of electronic equipment, that is designed to perform the same tasks as another, often in the same way and using virtually identical parts, programmed instructions, etc..

   Software written for one computer will probably run on its close compatibles.

compatible

/ kəmˈpætəbəl /

adjective

1. (usually foll by with) able to exist together harmoniously

2. (usually foll by with) consistent or congruous

   her deeds were not compatible with her ideology

3. 1. capable of forming successful grafts

   2. capable of successful self-fertilization See self-compatible self-incompatible

4. (of pieces of machinery, computer equipment, etc) capable of being used together without special modification or adaptation

   a PC-compatible disc

Other Word Forms

• compatibility noun
• compatibleness noun
• compatibly adverb
• noncompatible adjective
• noncompatibly adverb
• noncompatibleness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of compatible¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Medieval Latin compatibilis, derivative of Late Latin compatī ( Latin com- “with, together” + patī “to suffer, undergo”); com-, -ible

Word History and Origins

Origin of compatible¹

C15: from Medieval Latin compatibilis, from Late Latin compatī to be in sympathy with; see _compassion

Example Sentences

Wie’s group is developing versions of these robots that biodegrade after use, eliminating the need for surgical removal, and coatings that make the robots compatible with human tissue.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He said: "The public cannot have confidence in PS Robinson to protect them and others. This behaviour is not compatible with the role of a police officer."

Read more on BBC

The housing for halogen bulbs is not compatible with LED bulbs, and a retrofitted car will not pass its annual MOT check-up.

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Some boards believe that two decision makers working together is better than one, especially if they have compatible areas of expertise.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

When questioned on the BBC's Good Morning Scotland programme, the first minister stated that "any development taken forward must be compatible with our journey of climate action".

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• adaptable 
• appropriate 
• consistent 
• suitable