Composite: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'composite' is commonly used in engineering, materials science, and construction. It refers to a material made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties.

• The new bridge is made of composite materials.
• Composite decking is known for its durability.

In chemistry and sometimes in linguistics, 'compound' is used to describe something made up of two or more elements that are combined. It is neutral and technical in tone.

• Water is a chemical compound composed of hydrogen and oxygen.
• The word 'notebook' is a compound noun.

'Mixed' is used in a wide variety of contexts, from emotions to food. It suggests combination where the elements may remain somewhat distinct. Sometimes it may carry a slightly negative connotation, suggesting inconsistency.

• She had mixed feelings about moving to a new city.
• We served mixed vegetables for dinner.

'Blended' is often used in everyday language, particularly in cooking, education, and technology. It means mixing different elements together to form a smooth and more homogeneous result.

• The smoothie was made using blended fruits.
• The school uses a blended learning approach combining online and in-person classes.

Used to describe something made up of various parts or elements. Often used in technical or artistic contexts to indicate a combination of different materials or components.

• The composite material is both lightweight and strong.
• Her face in the photograph was a composite of several different images.

Specifically refers to an artistic composition made of various materials (such as paper, cloth, or photographs) pasted onto a surface. Used in art discussions or to describe a mix of different visual elements.

• She made a beautiful collage using old magazine cutouts.
• The art teacher showed us how to create a collage from our favorite pictures.

Used primarily in film and photography, it refers to a technique of selecting, editing, and piecing together separate sections to form a continuous whole. Also used in general contexts to describe a composite image or segment.

• The film's opening sequence was a fast-paced montage of city life.
• They created a photo montage for the wedding slideshow.

Refers to a collection or gathering of things or people, typically used in art or in describing a group of items. Common in art to describe a work created by assembling different elements.

• The museum exhibited an interesting assemblage of ancient artifacts.
• He created an assemblage out of recycled materials.