compatible
Capable of existing, functioning, or being mixed together without conflict, rejection, or adverse reaction.
In hematology, it specifically describes blood types that can be mixed during transfusion without triggering an immune response.
Word relationships
- congruous: Refers to logical or structural agreement, whereas compatible in medicine refers to immunological harmony.
- harmonious: Used for relationships or sounds, not for biological tissues or chemical mixtures.
- incompatible: Causes a violent immunological reaction or rejection when mixed.
Commonly confused with
- comparable: Comparable means similar or able to be compared, while compatible means able to work together without conflict.
Word family
- compatibility (noun): The state of being compatible.
Collocations
- compatible blood type
- biologically compatible
- cross-match compatible
Example sentences
- "The laboratory technician confirmed that the donor's red blood cells were fully compatible with the recipient's serum." Pre-transfusion laboratory testing
Memory hook
Think of two computer parts that click together perfectly, just like compatible blood types. Com (together) + Pat (feel/suffer) = feeling good together.
When not to use
Avoid using in medical contexts to mean 'friendly' or 'likable'; it must refer strictly to biological or chemical suitability.
Fun facts
- People with Type AB-positive blood are known as 'universal recipients' because their plasma is compatible with all red blood cell types.
Related words
Explore more words
compatibility, coexistence, harmonize, complementary, companionable, interoperable
Also appears in
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.