Blending Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blending

[หˆblษ›ndษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in linguistics

The process of forming a new word by combining parts of two or more existing words, such as 'smog' (from smoke and fog) or 'brunch' (from breakfast and lunch). Blending is a common word formation process in English.

Synonyms

compound word, portmanteau.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blending

Although same as the first, can be specific to combining elements, this repetition seems unintended.

  • The DJ was skilled at blending various genres of music seamlessly.
compound word

Use when referring to a word created by joining two or more existing words, usually without significant alteration.

  • The word 'toothbrush' is a compound word made of 'tooth' and 'brush'.
  • In English, many compound words are created, like 'notebook' and 'sunrise'.
portmanteau

Use when referring to a word created by blending parts of two or more words to form a new word with combined meanings.

  • 'Brunch' is a portmanteau of 'breakfast' and 'lunch'.
  • The word 'smog' is a portmanteau, derived from 'smoke' and 'fog'.

Examples of usage

  • The term 'brunch' is a blend of 'breakfast' and 'lunch'.
  • The word 'smog' is a blend of 'smoke' and 'fog'.
Context #2 | Noun

in marketing

A marketing strategy that combines two or more products or services to create a new offering, often with a unique name and selling point. Blending can help companies differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

Synonyms

fusion, merging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blending

Used when discussing the smooth mixing of different elements, often in the context of colors, flavors, or textures.

  • The artist achieved a beautiful effect by blending various shades of blue.
  • Blending different fruit juices can create a delicious smoothie.
merging

Used when two or more separate entities come together to form a single entity. It is often applied in business, technology, or an organizational context.

  • The two companies are merging to create a stronger presence in the market.
  • Merging the datasets will help in gaining more comprehensive insights.
fusion

Often used to describe the process of combining distinct elements into a unified whole, particularly in contexts like cuisine, music, or cultures. It has a more complex and creative connotation.

  • The restaurant offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Mexican cuisines.
  • Their music is a fusion of jazz and electronic elements.

Examples of usage

  • The company's blending of fitness classes and nutrition coaching was a huge success.
  • The blending of technology and fashion is a growing trend in the industry.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cooking

  • In cooking, blending is a key technique for combining flavors, often done with blenders, whisks, or spoons.
  • Smoothies and sauces rely on blending for a smooth consistency, ensuring all ingredients work together to create deliciousness.
  • Different regional cuisines often employ unique blending methods, such as using a mortar and pestle in certain traditional cooking.

Literature

  • In literature, methods of blending genres can create exciting new narratives, such as combining mystery with romance.
  • Blending styles and voices in poetry allows for a richer expression of ideas and emotions.
  • Authors often blend elements from different cultures to create stories that resonate with a wider audience.

Science

  • In science, blending can refer to combining different substances to achieve a desired chemical reaction or property.
  • The study of blending in genetics explains how traits from parents mix in offspring, such as eye color or hair texture.
  • Blending is also crucial in materials science, where different materials are combined for improved strength and flexibility.

Art

  • Artists blend colors in painting to create depth, shadow, and highlight, enhancing the visual impact of their work.
  • In music, blending different genres, like jazz and rock, can lead to innovative sounds and styles.
  • Digital art often utilizes blending modes to create unique textures and effects in images.

Origin of 'blending'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'blendan,' meaning to mix or to confuse.
  • It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'blandijan,' which means to mix or to blend.
  • The concept of blending has appeared in various languages with similar meanings, showcasing its universal importance.

The word 'blending' originated from the Middle English word 'blenden', which means 'to mix together'. The concept of blending has been present in language and marketing for centuries, with the process evolving to accommodate the changing needs of communication and commerce.


See also: blend, blendable, blended, blender.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,597, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.