union

1 the act or an instance of joining two or more things into one <the union of East Germany and West Germany that became possible after the fall of communism> Synonyms combination, combining, connecting, connection, consolidation, coupling, junction, linking, merger, merging, unification Related Words agglomeration, amalgamation, blend, coalescence, commingling, compounding, fusion, intermingling, intermixture, mingling, mix, mixture, synthesis; reunification, reunion Near Antonyms detachment, divorcement, separation, severance Antonyms breakup, disconnection, dissolution, disunion, division, parting, partition, schism, scission, split

2 an association of persons, parties, or states for mutual assistance and protection <in 1949 the U.S. and Canada joined their European allies in a transatlantic union to defend Western Europe from aggression by the Soviet Union> Synonyms alliance, axis, bloc, block, coalition, combination, combine, confederation, federation, league, confederacyRelated Words cabal, conspiracy, junto; cartel, syndicate, trust; faction, front, fusion, side, wing; association, group, organization; affiliation, cooperative, partnership; circuit, conference

3 the state of having shared interests or efforts (as in social or business matters) <the movie studio is producing the blockbuster in union with another studio because of the tremendous cost involved> Synonyms affiliation, alliance, collaboration, confederation, connection, cooperation, hookup, liaison, linkup, partnership, relation, relationship, tie-up, associationRelated Words business, dealings, interaction; exchange, interconnection, interrelation, mutualism, reciprocity, symbiosis; incorporation, integration, merger, unification; affinity, attachment, closeness, intimacy, rapport, sympathy; kinship, oneness, solidarity, togetherness, unity; colleagueship, companionship, company, fellowship; bed, cahoots, leagueNear Antonyms breakup, dissolution, disunion; division, parting, separation, severance, split; alienation, divorce, estrangementAntonyms disaffiliation, dissociation