Combine

Definition

Combine is used as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to join or merge two or more elements to form a single entity. As a noun, it can refer to an agricultural machine used for harvesting, or to a group of companies or organizations working together.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /kəmˈbaɪn/
• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑmˌbaɪn/
• Verb Respelling: kəm-BYN
• Noun Respelling: KOM-byn

British English

• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /kəmˈbaɪn/
• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmˌbaɪn/
• Verb Respelling: kəm-BYN
• Noun Respelling: KOM-byn

Etymology

The word "combine" originates from the Latin "combinare," meaning "to unite" or "to bring together," which combines "com-" (together) and "bini" (two by two). The term entered Middle English in the 15th century, retaining the sense of joining or merging.

Derivatives

• Combination (noun)
• Combining (verb)
• Combined (adjective)
• Recombine (verb)
• Combinable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Merge
• Unite
• Blend

Antonyms

• Separate
• Divide
• Detach

Usage

The term "combine" is used in various contexts, from cooking to business and agriculture. For example, "You can combine these ingredients to make a cake," or "The company operates a large combine for harvesting grain."

Related Terms

• Amalgamate: To unite or merge into a single entity.
• Integrate: To make something a part of a larger whole.
• Coalition: A group formed by combining multiple entities.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To join or merge to form a single entity: Refers to the act of bringing together separate elements.
  • Example: "To make the sauce, combine the ingredients in a bowl."
• To operate jointly or in partnership: Used in the context of organizations or groups working together.
  • Example: "The companies combined their resources for the project."

Noun

• An agricultural machine for harvesting: Refers to a machine that combines cutting, threshing, and cleaning in the harvesting process.
  • Example: "The farmer used a combine to harvest the wheat."
• A group or association working together: Describes a consortium or alliance of businesses or organizations.
  • Example: "They formed a combine to influence market trends."