Definition of compatible

The word "compatible" originates from the Latin words "com-" meaning "together" and "plistilis" meaning "pleasing" or "agreeable". The term "compatible" was first used in the 15th century to describe something that is pleasing or agreeable, particularly in a social or moral sense. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to encompass the idea of being suitable or conformable in a technical or practical sense, such as in the context of computer hardware or software. In the 17th century, the term "compatible" began to be used in a more specific sense to describe things that could be used together without conflict or incompatibility. For example, two pieces of software might be described as "compatible" if they could run simultaneously on the same computer without causing errors or conflicts. Today, the word "compatible" is commonly used in a wide range of contexts, from technology to social relationships, to describe things that can coexist or function together harmoniously.