Combination

Definition

Combination is a noun. It refers to the process or result of joining or mixing two or more elements together, often creating something new. In mathematics, it specifically refers to a selection of items from a larger set, regardless of their order.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌkɑmbəˈneɪʃən/
• Respelling: kahm-buh-NAY-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌkɒmbɪˈneɪʃən/
• Respelling: kom-bi-NAY-shuhn

The pronunciation of "combination" differs slightly between American and British English, with the vowel sound in the first syllable varying.

Etymology

The word "combination" originates from the Latin "combinatio," meaning "a joining or union." It is derived from "combinare," where "com-" means "together" and "bini" means "two by two." The term was adopted into Middle English, retaining meanings related to joining elements.

Derivatives

• Combine (verb)
• Combined (adjective)
• Combinatorial (adjective)
• Combinable (adjective)
• Recombination (noun)

Synonyms

• Mixture
• Blend
• Union

Antonyms

• Separation
• Division
• Isolation

Usage

The term "combination" is used in various contexts, such as cooking, where ingredients are combined, or in mathematics, where it denotes a selection of items. For example, "The recipe is a combination of spices and herbs" or "The lock opens with a specific numeric combination."

Related Terms

• Compound: A substance or entity formed by combining elements.
• Union: The act of joining or merging separate things.
• Permutation: An arrangement of items where order is important, contrasting with combinations.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The process or result of joining two or more things: Refers to merging elements to create something new.
  • Example: "The building's design is a combination of modern and classic styles."
• A sequence or grouping of numbers or items: Often used in reference to security locks or mathematical arrangements.
  • Example: "The safe can only be opened with the correct combination."
• A selection of items from a larger set, regardless of order (mathematics): Refers to choosing items without considering their sequence.
  • Example: "In this lottery, the combination of numbers drawn determines the winner."