Definition

Relating to or made up of separate sections or parts.

Example

The office has a compartmental design that helps organize different work areas.

Conversation

I just bought a new bag with a compartmental design.

Oh, that sounds useful! How many compartments does it have?

It has three separate sections, which helps keep everything organized.

Nice! I love bags that have a compartmental layout.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Compartmental is formed from "com-" (meaning together) and "part" (from Latin "partire", meaning to divide) and the suffix "-mental" (related to the mind or process). The word describes the process of dividing something into separate sections or parts, often in a way that keeps them distinct from one another.

Memory Tip

Think of 'together' ('com-') and 'dividing' ('partire') into sections — that's how compartmental means to divide things into separate parts.

Visually Confused Words