Amalgamate
/əˈmælɡəˌmeɪt/
verbC1
Definition
Amalgamate means to mix or unite different parts, groups, or things into a single, combined unit. It is often used when two companies join together or when different ideas come together to form one. The result is a new, bigger, or stronger whole.
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See It in Action
To join two or more companies, groups, or things into one
- •The two banks decided to amalgamate to compete better.
- •Several small schools amalgamated to form a larger high school.
- •The clubs amalgamated to organize bigger events.
To mix ideas or materials into a single, unified whole
- •The artist amalgamated different styles in her painting.
- •The report amalgamates data from many sources.
- •They amalgamated their ideas to create a new plan.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "amalgamate" like "join," but more formal and about making one new thing from many parts.
- ✓Picture two rivers flowing together to make one bigger river.
- ✓It’s the feeling when two teams work together and become one strong team.
- ✓Sounds like "a-mal-GA-mate" → imagine a "mate" (friend) helping to put pieces together like a puzzle.
- ✓Think of famous company mergers, like how two brands combine to make a new company.
- ✓NOT like "add" (just putting things side by side) — amalgamate means mixing so closely they become one.
- ✓NOT like "mix" (which can be temporary) — amalgamate usually means a permanent joining.
- ✓NOT like "combine" (general word) — amalgamate often means a formal or official joining, especially in business or groups.
Try Other Words
- •Merge: to combine, especially companies or organizations (Use when talking about business or official groups joining)
- •Unite: to come together as one (Use when focusing on people or groups becoming one)
- •Combine: to put together parts or ideas (Use for general mixing or putting things together)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: prefix "a-" (to, toward) + root "malgam" (from Latin amalgama, meaning mixture) + suffix "-ate" (verb form)
- •Etymology: From Latin amalgama, originally from Greek, meaning a mixture or alloy (a metal mix)
- •Historical development: First used in English in the 17th century to describe mixing metals; later expanded to mean joining groups or ideas
- •Modern usage: Commonly used in business, education, and social contexts to describe formal unions or combinations
- •Key insight: The word suggests a strong, complete joining, not just putting things side by side
Reflect & Connect
•How can amalgamating different ideas help create better solutions in your work or studies?
•What are some examples in your life where two things or groups have amalgamated to become stronger?
Fill in the blanks
1.The two companies decided to amalgamate ___ their resources to compete with larger firms.
2.When schools amalgamate, they often have to ___ different traditions and rules.
3.Amalgamate is different from just add because it means the parts ___ into one new whole.
4.The artist amalgamated colors and shapes ___ to create a unique painting style.
5.Businesses often amalgamate ___ to reduce costs and improve services.
6.When groups amalgamate, they usually need to ___ their goals and plans.
7.You can tell two things have amalgamated when they no longer look or act as ___ separate parts.