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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One potential source: When the fibers of synthetic clothing (such as polyester, elastane, nylon, or satin) come off the item with regular washing, drying, and wearing, and end up circulating in the air with other dust particles. —
Carolyn L. Todd, SELF, 5 Feb. 2025 Best of all, the product boasts up to 12 hours of wear, without any fear of smudging. Shades: 15 Finish: Matte, metallic Type: Liquid Key ingredients: Kaolin, synthetic beeswax Staying power: 12 hours Ease of application: Use the pointed tip of the applicator, carefully line your lips. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2025
Other times, drugs such as heroin, meth or cocaine were believed to be laced with the powerful synthetic opioid. —Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 16 Jan. 2025 The brand was recently dubbed one of two frontrunners out of 50 brands in Changing Market Foundation’s latest report ‘Fashion’s Plastic Paralysis’ which explored policies in place to mitigate microplastic release from textiles, in particular synthetics like polyester and nylon. —Amy Nguyen, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for synthetic 
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 12 Feb. 2025.
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Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025 - Updated example sentences
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