- combine
- ♦♦♦combines, combining, combined(The verb is pronounced [[t]kəmba͟ɪn[/t]]. The noun is pronounced [[t]kɒ̱mbaɪn[/t]].)1) V-RECIP-ERG If you combine two or more things or if they combine, they exist together.
[V n with n] The Church has something to say on how to combine freedom with responsibility...
[V n with n] If improved education is combined with other factors dramatic results can be achieved...
[pl-n V] Relief workers say it's worse than ever as disease and starvation combine to kill thousands...
[V-ed] This suits China's aim of gradual industrial reform combined with fast economic growth. [Also V with n, V pl-n]
2) V-RECIP-ERG If you combine two or more things or if they combine, they join together to make a single thing.[V pl-n] David Jacobs was given the job of combining the data from these 19 studies into one giant study...
[V n with n] Combine the flour with 3 tablespoons water to make a paste...
[pl-n V] Carbon, hydrogen and oxygen combine chemically to form carbohydrates and fats...
[V-ed] Combined with other compounds, they created a massive dynamite-type bomb. [Also V with n]
3) VERB If someone or something combines two qualities or features, they have both those qualities or features at the same time.[V pl-n] Their system seems to combine the two ideals of strong government and proportional representation.
[V n with n] ...a clever, far-sighted lawyer who combines legal expertise with social concern...
[V-ed] Her tale has a consciously youthful tone and storyline, combined with a sly humour.
4) VERB If someone combines two activities, they do them both at the same time.[V n with n/-ing] It is possible to combine a career with being a mother...
[V pl-n] He will combine the two jobs over the next three years.
5) V-RECIP-ERG If two or more groups or organizations combine or if someone combines them, they join to form a single group or organization.[V pl-n] ...an announcement by Steetley and Tarmac of a joint venture that would combine their brick, tile and concrete operations...
[pl-n V] Different states or groups can combine to enlarge their markets. [Also V with n, V n with n]
Syn:6) N-COUNT A combine is a group of people or organizations that are working or acting together....Veba, an energy-and-chemicals combine that is Germany's fourth-biggest company.
English dictionary. 2008.
