English Reference
Noun

interoperability

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US /ˌɪntɚˌɑpɚəˈbɪləti/ UK /ˌɪntəɹˌɒpəɹəbˈɪlɪti/ in·ter·op·er·abil·i·ty

n.the ability of different computer systems, devices, or software to work together and exchange information smoothly.

n.the capacity of distinct systems, devices, or software applications to exchange and use data or operate in conjunction without special effort from the user.


SIMPLE

Interoperability lets your phone connect to any Wi-Fi network.

CONTEXTUAL

The new healthcare platform prioritizes interoperability so hospitals can share patient records across different software systems.

COMPLEX

Despite years of standardization efforts, true interoperability between competing cloud providers remains elusive, locking many enterprises into single-vendor architectures.

Collaboration with US manufacturers will “ promote allied interoperability and provide a second source of supply for critical munitions”, the Australian defence force says.

The Guardian· 6 Sept 2026

The US said both leaders “agreed to accelerate force posture initiatives at Australian bases, bolster cooperation in combined logistics, and build greater interoperability through joint exercises”.

The Guardian· 3 Sept 2026

From interoperable + -ity; alternatively analyzed as inter- + operability.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Updated