synergy
Synergy (noun) means the extra benefit gained when people, groups, or things combine and work together, greater than what each could achieve alone. Example: “The merger was pitched to investors as a source of real synergy between the two companies.”
How to use synergy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe idea that combining forces produces more than the sum of the parts.
Overused as corporate jargon — often criticized as a buzzword when used vaguely instead of describing a specific benefit.
Word forms
synergies plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The merger was pitched to investors as a source of real _____ between the two companies.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek sunergia, "cooperation," from syn- ("with, together") and ergon ("work").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for synergy
See all rhymes for synergy →Frequently asked questions
What does “synergy” mean?
The word “synergy” means the extra benefit gained when people, groups, or things combine and work together, greater than what each could achieve alone. In plain terms, the idea that combining forces produces more than the sum of the parts.
How do you pronounce “synergy”?
“Synergy” is pronounced SIH-nuhd-zhee (/ˈsɪnəɹd͡ʒi/ in IPA).
How do you use “synergy” in a sentence?
Here is “synergy” used in a sentence: “The merger was pitched to investors as a source of real synergy between the two companies.”
What is another word for “synergy”?
Words with a similar meaning to “synergy” include binding energy.
What is the opposite of “synergy”?
The opposite of “synergy” — its antonyms — are antisynergy, asynergy, dysergia and dysergy.
What part of speech is “synergy”?
“Synergy” is a noun.
Where does the word “synergy” come from?
The word “synergy” comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek sunergia, "cooperation," from syn- ("with, together") and ergon ("work").
Is “synergy” a common word?
“Synergy” is an uncommon word in modern English.