noun
synthesis
SIHN-thuh-sihs
noun
1
The forming of something new and complete by combining separate parts or ideas.
"The essay was a synthesis of several conflicting theories."
"Good jazz often works as a synthesis of different musical traditions."
2
In chemistry, the process of building a more complex compound from simpler elements or substances.
"The lab specializes in the synthesis of new pharmaceutical compounds."
3
In electronic music, the creation of a sound by combining simpler waveforms.
"The album leans heavily on analog synthesis for its warm textures."
How to Use Synthesis
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCombining separate pieces — ideas, chemicals, or sounds — into one unified whole.
Common pairings
chemical synthesis
protein synthesis
sound synthesis
Word Forms
syntheses plural
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The essay was a _____ of several conflicting theories.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek sunthesis, "a putting together," from syntithemi, "to combine" (syn-, "together," plus tithemi, "to set, place").