synthesis
SIN-thuh-sis
/ˈsɪnθəsɪs/
The production of chemical compounds by reaction from simpler materials.
In biology, it almost always refers to the creation of complex molecules like proteins or DNA.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'synthesis', meaning 'a putting together'. It describes the act of placing different elements together to create a new, unified whole.
Word relationships
- production: Production is general; synthesis implies a complex assembly from simpler parts.
- analysis: Analysis is the breaking down of a complex whole into parts (the opposite of synthesis).
Word family
- synthesize (verb): To produce by synthesis.
- synthetic (adjective): Made by chemical synthesis; not natural.
Collocations
- protein synthesis
- chemical synthesis
- organic synthesis
Example sentences
- "Muscle protein synthesis is the process of building new muscle mass, which peaks after a workout." Muscle growth
- "Photosynthesis is the synthesis of glucose using light energy." Botany
Memory hook
Synthesis: 'Syn' (together) + 'Thesis' (putting). Putting it together. Building from scratch.
When not to use
In humanities, it means combining ideas; in biology, it specifically means building molecules.
Fun facts
- Your body synthesizes about 300 billion new cells every single day.
Explore more words
synthesize, composition, production, integrate, reagent, composite
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