synthesize
Americanverb (used with object)
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to form (a material or abstract entity) by combining parts or elements (opposed to analyze).
to synthesize a statement.
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Chemistry. to combine (constituent elements) into a single or unified entity.
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to treat synthetically.
verb (used without object)
verb
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to combine or cause to combine into a whole
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(tr) to produce by synthesis
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of synthesize
First recorded in 1820–30; synthes(is) + -ize
Explanation
When you synthesize, you combine two or more things to create something more complex. It's becoming more common for doctors these days to synthesize Eastern and Western approaches to medicine. While synthesize was first used in 1830, scientists and inventors were doing what it means long before that, mixing stuff together to create new materials and products. Medical researchers chemically synthesize chemicals every day in the lab, hoping to create the next wonder drug. When you write a research paper on a given topic, you must find and synthesize information related to that topic, so you can understand what it means and structure an argument in support of your thesis.
Vocabulary lists containing synthesize
Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List
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Argumentative Writing
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Vocabulary of the Common Core
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Synthesize the evidence you include by showing in your sentences the connections between sources.
From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021
Synthesize research findings using elements of the profile genre to create a written profile.
From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021
Synthesize information from multiple sources within a paragraph.
From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021
Synthesize information from outside sources with your own ideas in research writing while retaining a writerly voice.
From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021
Synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art.
From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
