Main Entry: link·age

Pronunciation: \ˈliŋ-kij\

Function: noun

Date: 1874

1 : the manner or style of being united: as a : the manner in which atoms or radicals are linked in a molecule b : bond 3c
2 : the quality or state of being linked; especially : the relationship between genes on the same chromosome that causes them to be inherited together — compare mendel's law 2
3 : a system of links; especially : a system of links or bars which are jointed together and more or less constrained by having a link or links fixed and by means of which straight or nearly straight lines or other point paths may be traced
4 : link 2b
5 : the tactic in diplomatic negotiations of linking often unrelated issues so that progress in one area is dependent on agreement in another