Synthetic
/sɪnˈθɛtɪk/noun
Relating to or produced by synthesis, especially in chemistry.
Did you know?The concept of synthesis can be traced back to ancient alchemical practices, where elements were combined to create the philosopher's stone—a legendary quest for transformation and immortality.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
συνθετικός (synthetikos)
“Pertaining to putting together or combining elements.”
Late Latin
Latin
syntheticus
“Relating to synthesis or combination.”
16th Century
English
synthetic
“Describing something made by combining different elements.”
19th Century
English
synthetic
“Applied to substances made through chemical synthesis.”
Modern English
English
synthetic
“Now refers broadly to anything artificially made or manufactured.”