The word "compatible" describes things that are able to exist or work together without conflict. It suggests that two or more elements can be used in conjunction without issues, whether in technology, relationships, or ideas. For example, if two software programs are compatible, they can run together smoothly; in relationships, it means that two people can get along well and support each other.
The word "compatible" comes from the Latin root "compatibilis," which means "able to exist together." The prefix "com-" means "together," and "patibilis" comes from "patior," meaning "to suffer" or "to endure." Thus, the original sense conveys the idea of "being able to tolerate or endure each other."