adjective
congenial
kun-JEEN-yul/kənˈdʒiːniəl/
Pleasantly suited to someone's nature, tastes, or needs.
The gardeners find each other congenial company.
Etymology
“Together” and “of birth” first suggested being kindred or sharing a nature. From that natural affinity came the sense of someone or something agreeable because it suits one's temperament or needs.
In context
I assured him that I could desire no more Charming chamber and no more congenial surroundings
More examples
- The quiet library was congenial to his working habits.
- They chose a climate congenial to the plants.
- Her new colleagues were congenial companions.
Forms
congenial · more congenial · most congenial
Similar words
- compatible
- Compatible things can work together; congenial adds a sense of pleasant suitability.
- agreeable
- Agreeable is pleasant; congenial often means especially suited to a particular person or purpose.