v., -bined, -bin·ing, -bines. v.tr.
- To bring into a state of unity; merge.
- To join (two or more substances) to make a single substance, such as a chemical compound; mix.
- To possess or exhibit in combination: The choreography, which combines artistry and athletics, is extremely innovative.
- (kŏm'bīn') To harvest (a grain crop) using a cutting, threshing, and cleaning machine.
- To become united; coalesce.
- To join forces for a common purpose. See synonyms at join.
- Chemistry. To form a compound.
- (kŏm'bīn') To harvest a grain crop using a cutting, threshing, and cleaning machine: "Norwegian bachelor farmers combining in their antique McCormacks" (Garrison Keillor).
- A power-operated harvesting machine that cuts, threshes, and cleans grain.
- An association of people or groups united for the furtherance of political or commercial interests.
- A combination.
[Middle English combinen, from Old French combiner, from Late Latin combīnāre : Latin com-, com- + bīnī, two by two.]
combiner com·bin'er n.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
