coexist

verb

co·​ex·​ist ˌkō-ig-ˈzist How to pronounce coexist (audio)
coexisted; coexisting; coexists
Synonyms of coexist

intransitive verb

1
: to exist together or at the same time
2
: to live in peace with each other especially as a matter of policy
coexistence
ˌkō-ig-ˈzi-stən(t)s How to pronounce coexist (audio)
noun
coexistent
ˌkō-ig-ˈzi-stənt How to pronounce coexist (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of coexist

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Examples of coexist in a Sentence

The species coexist in the same environment. Can the two countries peacefully coexist?
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Eventually, though, that piece of Jamon could no longer coexist with the size of his son’s ambition. — Luca Evans, Denver Post, 21 June 2026 Playing Maxine, however, reminded her that the two things can coexist. — Monica Coviello, Vanity Fair, 25 June 2026 The English language has never coexisted with Ancient Greek. — Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 23 June 2026 The American Revolution advanced powerful ideals of liberty and equality, but those ideals coexisted with slavery. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for coexist

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of coexist was in 1667

Rhymes for coexist

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Browse Nearby Words

coexecutor
coexist
coexistent
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Cite this Entry

“Coexist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coexist. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

coexist

verb
co·​ex·​ist ˌkō-ig-ˈzist How to pronounce coexist (audio)
1
: to exist together or at the same time
2
: to live in peace with each other
coexistence
-ˈzis-tən(t)s How to pronounce coexist (audio)
noun
coexistent
-tənt How to pronounce coexist (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on coexist

Nglish: Translation of coexist for Spanish Speakers

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