synthesis

noun

syn·​the·​sis ˈsin(t)-thə-səs 

plural syntheses ˈsin(t)-thə-ˌsēz 

1

a

: the composition or combination of parts or elements so as to form a whole

b

: the production of a substance by the union of chemical elements, groups, or simpler compounds or by the degradation of a complex compound

c

: the combining of often diverse conceptions into a coherent whole

also : the complex so formed

2

a

: deductive reasoning

b

: the dialectic combination of thesis and antithesis into a higher stage of truth

3

: the frequent and systematic use of inflected forms as a characteristic device of a language

synthesist

ˈsin(t)-thə-sist 

noun

Synonyms

• admixture
• alloy
• amalgam
• amalgamation
• blend
• cocktail
• combination
• composite
• compound
• conflation
• emulsion
• fusion
• intermixture
• meld
• mix
• mixture

Examples of synthesis in a Sentence

a philosophy that is a kind of synthesis of several schools of Western and Eastern thought

Recent Examples on the Web

Good Source of Iron Iron is essential to red blood cell production for cell growth and function, hormone synthesis, and neurological development.18 Chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice are often used in making hummus. —Aviv Joshua, Verywell Health, 20 Nov. 2024

Therefore, people taking these medications are advised to use sunscreen, which prevents UVB synthesis of vitamin D.15 Vitamin D is important for people with calcium deficiency, osteopenia, or osteoporosis. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 6 Nov. 2024

In 1961, Karl Heinz-Klinger, a researcher at the West German pharmaceutical company Degussa, completed the synthesis of a new drug called fenethylline—a combination of amphetamine and an asthma medication called theophylline. —Ed Caesar, The New Yorker, 4 Nov. 2024

Discussions reflected a deep understanding that progress demands a synthesis of innovation, ethical considerations, and inclusivity. —David Walcott, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Greek, from syntithenai to put together, from syn- + tithenai to put, place — more at do

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing synthesis

• synthesis gas

Kids Definition

synthesis

noun

syn·​the·​sis ˈsin(t)-thə-səs 

plural syntheses -thə-ˌsēz 

1

: the combination of parts or elements so as to form a whole

especially : the production of a substance by union of chemically simpler substances

2

a

: the combining of often very different ideas into an ordered whole

b

: the product so formed

Medical Definition

synthesis

noun

syn·​the·​sis ˈsin(t)-thə-səs 

plural syntheses -ˌsēz 

1

: the composition or combination of parts or elements so as to form a whole

2

: the production of a substance by the union of chemical elements, groups, or simpler compounds or by the degradation of a complex compound

protein synthesis