Coexist - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

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SKIP TO CONTENT coexist /ˈkoʊəgˌzɪst/ /kəʊɛgˈzɪst/ IPA guide

Other forms: coexisting; coexisted; coexists

To coexist is to live in the same place or at the same time. If you, your roommate, and a cat all live in an apartment together, you can say the three of you coexist.

You can use the verb coexist to simply mean "exist together," or it can mean something more specific — to live peacefully or tolerantly in the same place. Two countries might have to work to find a way to coexist despite years of conflict, for example. The word has been around since the 1600's, but it wasn't used in this second, diplomatic way until 1931. Coexist combines exist, "be" or "live," with the prefix co, "together."

Definitions of coexist

verb exist together see moresee less types: co-occur, coincide, cooccur go with, fall together overlap coincide partially or wholly type of: be, exist have an existence, be extant
verb coexist peacefully, as of nations

Pronunciation US /ˈkoʊəgˌzɪst/ UK /kəʊɛgˈzɪst/ Cite this entry Style: MLA

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Copy citation DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘coexist'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback Word Family

Vocabulary lists containing coexist

co-, col-

You might want to work TOGETHER WITH a friend to practice these words beginning with the prefixes co- and col-, meaning "with, together."

The Brave James Bird

Collin, struggling with OCD and frequent bullying, moves in with with his mother, who lives on a Native American reservation.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Aristotle and Dante are two teenagers with classical names and loner attitudes. When their paths cross, they develop a friendship that will change their lives.

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