Synthesize
SIN-thuh-syz
/ˈsɪnθɪsaɪz/
To make (something) by synthesis, especially chemically.
In chemistry, it specifically means to create a compound by combining simpler elements or compounds. More broadly, it means to combine distinct elements to form a coherent whole.
The story behind the word. The word 'synthesize' comes from the Greek 'synthesis,' which means 'a putting together' or 'composition.' It's formed from 'syn-' (meaning 'together') and 'tithenai' (meaning 'to place'). This origin perfectly describes the act of combining separate elements or ideas to form a new, coherent whole, whether in chemistry, philosophy, or art.
Word relationships
- create: More general; 'synthesize' implies combining existing components.
- manufacture: Often implies large-scale industrial production; 'synthesize' can apply to laboratory scale.
- produce: Very general; 'synthesize' specifies the method of formation from simpler parts.
- break down: To decompose or separate into simpler components.
- analyze: To examine in detail to understand structure or composition.
Commonly confused with
- Analyze: To synthesize is to build up; to analyze is to break down or examine components.
Word family
- synthesis (noun): the process of synthesizing
- synthetic (adjective): made by chemical synthesis; artificial
- synthesizer (noun): a person or device that synthesizes
Collocations
- synthesize compounds
- synthesize materials
- synthesize DNA
- chemically synthesize
Example sentences
- "The pharmaceutical company invested heavily in research to synthesize a more potent antibiotic." Scientists are constantly working to synthesize new drugs with improved efficacy.
- "Through a complex series of reactions, plants are able to synthesize sugars from carbon dioxide and water." Plants synthesize glucose through photosynthesis, a fundamental biological process.
- "Her latest work attempts to synthesize traditional folk art with modern abstract techniques." The artist sought to synthesize various cultural influences into a unique style.
Memory hook
Think of 'SYN-chronize' (together in time) and 'SYN-thesize' (put together to make). Put together, make new.
When not to use
Do not use 'synthesize' when simply assembling pre-made parts without chemical transformation, or when referring to natural growth/formation (unless specifically talking about biological synthesis).
Fun facts
- The first fully synthetic organic compound, urea, was synthesized by Friedrich Wöhler in 1828, a discovery that challenged the vitalism theory that organic compounds could only be produced by living organisms.
- Many common medicines, like aspirin, are synthesized in laboratories.
Related words
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