connect

Definition of connectnext
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as in to associate
to think of (something) in combination opera is popularly connected with high society

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb connect differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of connect are associate, combine, join, link, relate, and unite. While all these words mean "to bring or come together into some manner of union," connect suggests a loose or external attachment with little or no loss of identity.

a mutual defense treaty connected the two nations

In what contexts can associate take the place of connect?

The meanings of associate and connect 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

Where would combine be a reasonable alternative to connect?

The words combine and connect can be used in similar contexts, but combine implies some merging or mingling with corresponding loss of identity of each unit.

combined jazz and rock to create a new music

When is join a more appropriate choice than connect?

The words join and connect are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, join implies a bringing into contact or conjunction of any degree of closeness.

joined forces in an effort to win

When can link be used instead of connect?

While in some cases nearly identical to connect, link may imply strong connection or inseparability of elements still retaining identity.

a name forever linked with liberty

When is it sensible to use relate instead of connect?

While the synonyms relate and connect are close in meaning, relate suggests the existence of a real or presumed logical connection.

related what he observed to what he already knew

When might unite be a better fit than connect?

In some situations, the words unite and connect are roughly equivalent. However, 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 connect These experiences deepen understanding, challenge assumptions, and help students connect Connecticut’s past and present in a more meaningful way. Letters To The Editor, Hartford Courant, 13 Feb. 2026 The two connected when Esor Marie was working on scaling the business and appearing in an NYFW show. Tara Larson, Footwear News, 13 Feb. 2026 Previous iterations, which ran in Bangladesh, Cambodia and Indonesia, digitally traced more than 21,000 tons of textile waste and connected over 100 factories and 20 global brands to recycling partners. Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 13 Feb. 2026 As a post-production platform for international arthouse projects, First Look connects producers with decision-makers at a crucial stage of financing, sales, and festival positioning. Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 13 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for connect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for connect
Verb
  • Seeking stability and a place to belong, Rose attempts to integrate into the wary community.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 15 Feb. 2026
  • Millions of people already rely on chatbots powered by large language models, and have integrated these synthetic interlocutors into their personal and professional lives.
    Deb Roy, The Atlantic, 15 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Run by the international Caravane Earth Foundation, this agricultural initiative has brought together global experts to research farming methodologies that combine traditional practices with innovation.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Made with the same cut-resistant fabric as its compact organizer, this classic design combines durability with thoughtful security features.
    Jennifer Vermeer, Travel + Leisure, 17 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Studying auroras is important, because they are associated with geomagnetic storms, which can cause all kinds of technical issues for satellites in space, as well as endanger astronauts.
    Julian Dossett, Space.com, 15 Feb. 2026
  • On average, increasing land-use mix by 20% was associated with a 7% relative increase in short-distance trips.
    Bree Shirvell, Hartford Courant, 15 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The actress, also sharing the laughter, glowed in a sleeveless black dress layered with necklaces and bracelets, leaning in with a warm smile — the vibe appeared to be relaxed, romantic and very much coupled up.
    Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 12 Feb. 2026
  • Try coupling the seasonal shades with a glossy nude foundation for a refined effect.
    Calin Van Paris, InStyle, 6 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The two-in-one tool uses heat to melt and fuse the edges of plastic packaging back together, creating a much tighter seal than an everyday chip clip.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Feb. 2026
  • Soft Scale Soft scales have a soft waxy coating that is fused to the insect body.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 15 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Models require extensive training to enable them to identify everyday objects to interact with, which means that simple tasks like picking up fruit can be challenging in robotics.
    Arjun Kharpal, CNBC, 14 Feb. 2026
  • Only one body was identified by a family, while the others were buried on Friday.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 14 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Our distribution chain was interconnected with all the steamboats that carried goods throughout the Chesapeake region and Baltimore’s splendid railroad network.
    Jacques Kelly, Baltimore Sun, 7 Feb. 2026
  • Almost 60 per cent of rooms can be interconnected; some have sofa beds.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • One of the students in his lab correlated low tick numbers to periods when humidity had dropped below 82%.
    Alex Kuffner, The Providence Journal, 14 Feb. 2026
  • McDonald added there is no reason to believe the suspect’s transition correlates with the shooting.
    Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 12 Feb. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Connect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/connect. Accessed 20 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on connect

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