Main Entry: fu·sion

Pronunciation: \ˈfyü-zhən\

Function: noun

Usage: often attrib

1 a : the act or process of liquefying or rendering plastic by heat b : the liquid or plastic state induced by heat
2 : a union by or as if by melting together: as a : a merging of diverse elements into a unified whole ; specifically : the blending of retinal images in binocular vision b : a combination of ingredients achieved by heating and mixing together c (1) : a blend of sensations, perceptions, ideas, or attitudes such that the component elements can seldom be identified by introspective analysis (2) : the perception of light from a source that is intermittent above a critical frequency as if the source were continuous—called also flicker fusion; compare flicker d : the surgical immobilization of a joint—see spinal fusion
3 : the union of atomic nuclei to form heavier nuclei resulting in the release of enormous quantities of energy when certain light elements unite—called also nuclear fusion

—fu·sion·al \-^əl\ adjective