Definition of combinenext
1
as in cartel
a number of businesses or enterprises united for commercial advantage charged that the cable companies had formed an illegal combine for the purpose of keeping rates artificially high

Synonyms & Similar Words

2

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb combine differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of combine are associate, connect, join, link, relate, and unite. While all these words mean "to bring or come together into some manner of union," combine implies some merging or mingling with corresponding loss of identity of each unit.

combined jazz and rock to create a new music

When would associate be a good substitute for combine?

The meanings of associate and combine largely overlap; however, associate stresses the mere fact of frequent occurrence or existence together in space or in logical relation.

opera is popularly associated with high society

When is it sensible to use connect instead of combine?

While in some cases nearly identical to combine, connect suggests a loose or external attachment with little or no loss of identity.

a mutual defense treaty connected the two nations

When might join be a better fit than combine?

Although the words join and combine have much in common, join implies a bringing into contact or conjunction of any degree of closeness.

joined forces in an effort to win

In what contexts can link take the place of combine?

The synonyms link and combine are sometimes interchangeable, but link may imply strong connection or inseparability of elements still retaining identity.

a name forever linked with liberty

When can relate be used instead of combine?

The words relate and combine can be used in similar contexts, but relate suggests the existence of a real or presumed logical connection.

related what he observed to what he already knew

When is unite a more appropriate choice than combine?

The words unite and combine are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, unite implies somewhat greater loss of separate identity.

the colonies united to form a republic

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of combine
Verb
As Santa continues to check off Jake’s list, Jake and Julie combine forces to anticipate each new wish’s chaotic consequences, all while growing closer to each other — and possibly leading Jake closer to his most important childhood dream. — Rachel Labonte, Entertainment Weekly, 29 Oct. 2026 Antioch’s ability to defend the pass is a strength as Jack Herstowski, Caleb Caldani and Lennon have combined for 12 interceptions. — Steve Reaven, Chicago Tribune, 29 Oct. 2026
Noun
It’s already allowed for off-road purposes like farming equipment, such as tractors and combines, as well as construction and heating uses. — Sarah Raza, Los Angeles Times, 8 Oct. 2026 It's already allowed for off-road purposes like farming equipment, such as tractors and combines, as well as construction and heating uses. — ABC News, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for combine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for combine
Verb
  • Madsen connected with Jones for a 6-yard pass on the very first play of the game and didn’t slow down.
    — Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 25 Oct. 2026
  • Part of that strategy is to connect with younger consumers, hence a recent partnership with 21-year-old livestreamer iShowSpeed along with innovating with menu items, branding, and store layout.
    — Preston Fore, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Coffee growing in Ethiopia is dominated by smallholders, whose beans are mixed together and sold on.
    — Damian Zane, semafor.com, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Billed as Pokémon Night Out, the show mixed together the creatures from the popular video games and trading cards with the lasers, pyrotechnics and mind-blowing visuals of EDM music.
    — Jordan Moreau, Variety, 25 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The killing underscores the dangers facing Mexican local leaders who challenge cartels, as President Claudia Sheinbaum faces pressure to confront organized crime and corruption.
    — Megan Janetsky, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2026
  • Nevertheless, Baron Cohen persuades real politicians, including Gingrich and Congressman Andy Harris, to condemn the fake cartel leader.
    — Maxwell Adler, Vanity Fair, 27 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • That’s thanks to a combination of antibiotic development, scientific understanding and luck.
    — Faye Flam, Scientific American, 27 Oct. 2026
  • The holiday-season favorite returns with its elaborate combination of rock music, theatrical storytelling and stage effects.
    — Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 26 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Roa advocates for cross-movement networks that unite such causes as reproductive freedom, LGBTQ+ rights, and children’s welfare.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 27 Oct. 2026
  • With the opposition united in its ambition to replace Netanyahu but divided over how to govern afterward, neither political bloc is assured of a parliamentary majority and the final outcome could take weeks to determine.
    — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 27 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • By integrating the launcher into a standard shipping container, the solution can be transported more easily, moved between locations, and incorporated into existing logistics and transportation networks.
    — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026
  • However, many climate functions remain integrated into the touchscreen interface.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 24 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Visages closed its doors in 2000 amid the shift to digital, industry consolidation and competition from major syndicates including Getty Images and Corbis.
    — Mike Barnes, HollywoodReporter, 23 Oct. 2026
  • While some more nefarious syndicates might hold your steering or brakes for ransom, a far more common target is your private information.
    — Mike McRae October 20, New Atlas, 21 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The mandate goes to the lawmaker most likely to assemble a coalition.
    — Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Young protestors answered with an insurrectionary energy in the summer and soon found support from a broader coalition comprised of opposition parties, social movements and other pillars of Indian civil society.
    — Asim Ali, Time, 24 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Combine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/combine. Accessed 3 Nov. 2026.

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