coexist

verb

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

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 noun
coexistent adjective

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.
According to the researchers, Denisovans coexisted with modern-day humans and are closely related to Neanderthals. Nick Butler, FOXNews.com, 21 June 2025 Our species once coexisted for tens of thousands of years and interbred with both Denisovans and Neanderthals before the two went extinct. Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 18 June 2025 Preparing For The Transition Period Organizations must navigate a hybrid reality where quantum-vulnerable and quantum-resistant systems coexist, sometimes processing the same data. Antonio Sanchez, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 Two narratives can coexist — one of struggle and one of care. Charles C. Daniels, CNBC, 13 June 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Coexist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coexist. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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 noun
coexistent adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on coexist

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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