mix-and-match

American  

[miks-uhn-mach] / ˈmɪks ənˈmætʃ /

adjective

1. made up of complementary elements taken from different sets or sources.

   a mix-and-match approach to interior decoration.

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verb (used with or without object)

1. to combine in a harmonious or interesting way, as articles of clothing in an ensemble.

mix and match Idioms  

1. Combine different items in a number of ways. For example, The store displayed skirts, blouses, and slacks in colors that one could mix and match. [Mid-1900s]

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Etymology

Origin of mix-and-match

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Panera Bread, which traditionally hasn’t offered a value menu, announced a $4.99 mix-and-match promotion last month.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

A few years ago I realized the lunch format that leaves me most satisfied — without putting me to sleep — is a little soup-and-salad mix-and-match situation.

From Salon • Mar. 9, 2026

If a mix-and-match England team lost, it would also undermine the new Nations Championship, with each match contributing to a North v South rankings play-off at Twickenham.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2026

Harbaugh could also be getting both of his running backs to help mix-and-match the operation alongside Kimani Vidal, who inserted himself into the team’s running attack after rookie Omarion Hampton sustained an ankle fracture.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 6, 2025

“I played a mix-and-match game like this once in a magazine,” said Miguel.

From "Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics" by Chris Grabenstein