Entry Word: combination

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a distinct entity formed by the combining of two or more different things <his chief advantage was a combination of luck and planning> — see blend
2 the act or an instance of joining two or more things into one <the combination of mint and chocolate in a delicious dessert> — see union 1
3 a number of businesses or enterprises united for commercial advantage <the businesses formed a combination in an attempt to establish a monopoly> — see cartel
4 an association of persons, parties, or states for mutual assistance and protection <a combination of citizens dedicated to fighting higher property taxes> — see confederacy