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.
For years, Council Member Brun and Meth Dealer Brun had somehow managed to coexist. — Guthrie Scrimgeour, Rolling Stone, 2 Aug. 2026 Along with texture, thoughtfully selecting skin-care-forward ingredients that could seamlessly coexist with complexion coverage and broad-spectrum sun protection was just as essential. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 July 2026 Payments, of course, is not the only industry in which speed and accountability must coexist. — Rochelle Blease, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 The village’s Sikh landowners and Muslim tenant farmers have coexisted for generations. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 July 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 5 Aug. 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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