Compatibility

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /kəmˌpæt.əˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/

Definitions

1. The state in which multiple elements can coexist or operate harmoniously without clashing
2. The property that enables different entities to support each other’s functionality and goals smoothly
3. The quality that allows different parts or systems to function well together without problems

Etymology: "Compatibility" is a fairly plain formation. English took it from New Latin "compatibilitās", the abstract noun built on the adjective "compatible" plus the English suffix "-ity", which turns adjectives into nouns of quality. The adjective itself came into English from medieval Latin "compatibilis", a word that joined the prefix "com-" ("together") to "pati" ("to bear, suffer, endure"). Its core idea is therefore things that can bear being together. The earliest sense was closer to tolerance than to smooth cooperation. Medieval writers used "compatible" for things that could endure or fit alongside one another, and the noun carried that sense of mutual endurance. The modern meaning, the ability of things or people to work together, developed gradually from it, so the word now describes practical teamwork as much as bearing one another's company.

Synonyms: harmony, congruence, conformity, accord, suitability

Antonyms: incompatibility, conflict, discord, discrepancy, dissonance