Definitions

congenial

[kuhn-jeen-yuhl] / kənˈdʒin yəl /

ADJECTIVE

friendly, compatible

Synonyms

STRONGEST

affable agreeable convivial cordial favorable genial gracious harmonious jovial mellow pleasant pleasing sociable sympathetic

WEAK

adapted amical clubby companionable compatible complaisant congruous consistent consonant conversable cooperative delightful fit good-humored happy kindly kindred like-minded regular fellow right neighborly social suitable well-suited

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aloof cold cool disagreeable discordant harsh hateful mean nasty unfriendly unhappy unkind unpleasant unsociable

WEAK

ill-suited incompatible uncongenial unsympathetic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Michael Auslin terms Coolidge’s interpretation “more intelligible and congenial to ordinary Americans than the abstract musings of scholars.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

I took a job in human resources and I thought that would be a little more congenial, but gradually I started to realize I’m in the wrong place.

From Slate • Feb. 21, 2026

To Mediavilla, she is an overlooked Disneyland personality, working to set up tour school groups, help define children’s activities and be an advocate for Disneyland’s overly congenial hospitality.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 21, 2026

Sir John said the world was changing and "may not be reshaping in a way that is congenial to the West".

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2025

On the cog, alas, everyone was just who they appeared to be, no one was particularly congenial, and only the red priest was interesting.

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin

Vocabulary lists containing congenial

"The Landlady" by Roald Dahl

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Odyssey" by Homer, Books 8–13

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Grade 10, List 6

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!