amalgam
UK: əˈmælɡəm | US: əˈmælɡəm
n. a mixture or blend of diverse elements
n. (specifically) an alloy of mercury with another metal, used in dentistry
n. (figuratively) a combination of different things that form a cohesive whole
The word amalgam traces back to medieval alchemy, where it described the process of blending mercury with other metals. The Arabic root ‘amal (softening) reflects the malleable nature of mercury, while the Greek gamos (union) signifies the binding of metals. Over time, the term expanded metaphorically to describe any harmonious mixture.
The cultural festival was an amalgam of music, art, and cuisine from around the world.
Dentists once commonly used silver amalgam to fill cavities.
Her philosophy is an amalgam of Eastern and Western thought.
The alloy is an amalgam of copper and zinc.
The novel’s plot is an amalgam of mystery and romance.