Definition of SYNTHETIC (original) (raw)
1
: relating to or involving synthesis : not analytic
the synthetic aspects of a philosophy
2
: attributing to a subject something determined by observation rather than analysis of the nature of the subject and not resulting in self-contradiction if negated compare analytic
3
: characterized by frequent and systematic use of inflected forms to express grammatical relationships
4
a(1)
: of, relating to, or produced by chemical or biochemical synthesis
especially : produced artificially
(2)
: of or relating to a synfuel
b
: devised, arranged, or fabricated for special situations to imitate or replace usual realities
: something resulting from synthesis rather than occurring naturally
especially : a product (such as a drug or plastic) of chemical synthesis
Synonyms
Examples of synthetic in a Sentence
Adjective
that organic farm doesn't use any pesticides or synthetic fertilizers boots of waterproof synthetic leather Noun
The drug is a synthetic.
Recent Examples on the Web
The 'founder and leader of the Sinaloa Cartel' Justice Department officials described Zambada’s arraignment as a major step forward in the U.S. war against Mexican drug cartels that in recent years have flooded the U.S. with the synthetic opioid. —
Josh Meyer, USA TODAY, 13 Sep. 2024 Those seeking lighter wristlet wallets may prefer synthetic leather or cloth designs. —Bestreviews, The Mercury News, 12 Sep. 2024
All of this culminates in gentle synthetics, which create non-abrasive or astringent products. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 17 Sep. 2024 However Esprit, which had previously pledged to decrease its use of synthetics, upped its use 15 percent by volume in 2023. —Rhonda Richford, WWD, 17 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for synthetic 
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'synthetic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Adjective
Greek synthetikos of composition, component, from syntithenai to put together
First Known Use
Adjective
1697, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Noun
1916, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of synthetic was in 1697
Dictionary Entries Near synthetic
Cite this Entry
“Synthetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/synthetic. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.
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Last Updated: 19 Sep 2024 - Updated example sentences
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