synergy

[ sin-er-jee ]

noun

, plural syn·er·gies.

1. the interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect that is greater than the sum of the individual elements, contributions, etc.; synergism.
2. Physiology, Medicine/Medical. the cooperative action of two or more muscles, nerves, or the like.
3. Biochemistry, Pharmacology. the cooperative action of two or more stimuli or drugs.

synergy

/ sɪˈnɜːdʒɪk; ˈsɪnədʒɪ /

noun

1. Also calledsynergism the potential ability of individual organizations or groups to be more successful or productive as a result of a merger
2. another name for synergism

Derived Forms

• synergic, adjective

Other Words From

• syn·er·gic [si-, nur, -jik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of synergy¹

First recorded in 1650–60; from New Latin synergia, from Greek synergía, from synerg(ós) “working together” ( synergism ) + -ia -y ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of synergy¹

C19: from New Latin synergia, from Greek sunergos; see synergism

Example Sentences

The Synergy multi-academy trust in Norfolk has a chaplain working across four of its high schools.

From BBC

“People don’t quite understand just how much of a visionary Martha was and continues to be. She understood synergy long before others did; she understood the lack of barriers between different kinds of content before others did; she understood the power of the personal brand before others did,” Cutler told Netflix.

From Salon

Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine Private Limited, the companies that owned and operated the Dali have agreed to pay, resolving a month-long civil lawsuit.

From BBC

“I’m confident that this synergy will elevate Reaume Brothers Racing and help us achieve great things together. I can’t wait to get started.”

From Los Angeles Times

The staging lacks both synergy and focus.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• teamwork