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combination

Syllabification: (com·bi·na·tion)
Pronunciation: /ˌkämbəˈnāSHən/

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Definition of combination

noun

  • 1a joining or merging of different parts or qualities in which the component elements are individually distinct:a combination of blackberries, raspberries, and rhubarb this color combination is stunningly effective
  • the process of combining different parts or qualities or the state of being combined:these four factors work together in combination
  • an arrangement of elements:the canvases may be arranged in any number of combinations
  • (in various sports and games) a coordinated and effective sequence of moves:a good uppercut/hook combination
  • [as modifier] uniting different uses, functions, or ingredients:a combination garment bag and backpack
  • Chemistry the joining of substances in a compound with new properties.
  • 2a sequence of numbers or letters used to open a combination lock: [as modifier]:a combination briefcase
  • 3 Mathematics a selection of a given number of elements from a larger number without regard to their arrangement.

Derivatives

combinational

Pronunciation: /-SHənl/

adjective

combinative

Pronunciation: /ˈkämbəˌnātiv, kəmˈbīnətiv/

adjective

combinatorial

Pronunciation: /ˌkämbənəˈtôrēəl, kəmˌbīnə-/

adjective
( Mathematics)

combinatorially

adverb
( Mathematics)

combinatory

Pronunciation: /kəmˈbīnəˌtôre, ˈkämbənə-/

adjective

Origin:

late Middle English: from late Latin combinatio(n-), from the verb combinare 'join two by two' (see combine1)

combination in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of combination in the British & World English dictionary

Nearby words

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