linkage

noun

link·age | \ ˈliŋ-kij

Definition of linkage

1 : the manner or style of being united: such as

a : the manner in which atoms or radicals are linked in a molecule

b : bond sense 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 sense 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 sense 2b

5 : the tactic in diplomatic negotiations of linking often unrelated issues so that progress in one area is dependent on agreement in another

Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More about linkage

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Examples of linkage in a Sentence

linkages between population growth and disease the accountants noticed a linkage between the two supposedly independent companies

Recent Examples on the Web

This is a big deal because, as the brain imagery shows, the brain starts to form new linkages and new connections. — Sean Illing, Vox, "Why psychedelic drugs could transform how we treat depression and mental illness," 21 May 2018 Most Americans would live in areas where power generators compete on open markets and transmission is regionally coordinated, which could lead to further cooperation and grid linkage. — David Roberts, Vox, "California’s huge energy decision: link its grid to its neighbors, or stay autonomous?," 23 Aug. 2018 In caring for children, the focus is on influencing and establishing good lifetime habits and identifying linkages to environmental factors or the larger community. — Melanie Grayce West, WSJ, "As a Doctor She Treated Children, Now Health Commissioner Cares for an Entire City," 11 Feb. 2019 Photo: © stringer shanghai / reuters/Reuters A measure of correlation shows the linkage between the Dow Jones Oil and Gas Titans index and West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. crude benchmark, remains high but has fallen. — Kevin Kingsbury, WSJ, "Energy Shares Shed Crude Relationship With Oil Prices," 20 Nov. 2018 Yes, many groups around the world are investigating various complex linkages between the Arctic and weather patterns. — Martin Finucane, BostonGlobe.com, "Is this string of storms a harbinger of winters to come?," 22 Mar. 2018 To improve the drain rate, shorten the trip waste linkage by about ¼ inch. — Merle Henkenius, Popular Mechanics, "How to Unclog a Bathtub Drain the Right Way," 15 July 2016 The linkage program has raised $40.4 million in housing funds and $9.4 million for job training programs since 2014. — BostonGlobe.com, "Walsh wants Boston developers to pay more," 13 June 2018 The Kid Runner includes quick-release wheels for easy storage, an adjustable-length, carbon-fiber linkage to dampen shock, and an attachable dog leash. — Roy M. Wallack, latimes.com, "Summer is calling: Fitness gear to get you outdoors – and moving," 5 July 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'linkage.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.