synergy

noun

syn·​er·​gy ˈsi-nər-jē 

plural synergies

1

: synergism

broadly : combined action or operation

2

: a mutually advantageous conjunction or compatibility of distinct business participants or elements (such as resources or efforts)

Did you know?

An old saying, "The whole is greater than the sum of its parts", expresses the basic meaning of synergy. The word is sometimes used in a purely physical sense, especially when talking about drugs; sometimes a "cocktail" of drugs may be more effective than the sum of the effectiveness of each of the separate drugs. But the word is best known in the world of business. The notion that, when the right two companies merge, they'll produce a profitable synergy seemed exciting in the 1990s, when synergy became a trendy buzzword (even though it's actually been around since the 17th century). The idea of synergy was one factor in what became a "merger mania;" unfortunately, business synergy often turned out to be harder to achieve than to imagine.

Examples of synergy in a Sentence

A synergy has developed among the different groups working on this project.

two companies that have found synergy

Recent Examples on the Web

Whatever the case, this cosmic synergy will take place during the first-quarter moon in Cancer, bringing emotion and emphasis to your love life, self-expression and personal passions. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025

In collaboration with these five designers, the exhibition will showcase the synergy of creative design, advanced material properties, smart technology, biodegradability and upcycling techniques, highlighting the transformative potential of innovative materials in the fashion industry. —Sj Studio, Sourcing Journal, 1 Apr. 2025

This synergy gives consumers greater freedom to choose devices that suit their needs while enjoying a seamless, hassle-free experience. —Michael De Nil, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025

Attracting some pharmaceutical companies long ago has caused others to move there to take advantage of the synergies of concentrated industries and the talent that sustains and expands them. —Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 29 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin synergia, from Greek synergos working together

First Known Use

1632, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

synergy

noun

syn·​er·​gy ˈsin-ər-jē 

plural synergies

: synergism