confluence
UK: ˈkɒn.flu.əns | US: ˈkɑːn.flu.əns
n. the junction of two rivers, streams, or other bodies of water
n. a gathering or merging of elements (e.g., ideas, cultures)
n. a crowd or assembly of people
The word "confluence" originates from Latin confluentia, combining con- (together) and fluere (to flow). The morpheme flu- appears in many English words (e.g., "fluid," "influence"), reflecting its Latin root meaning "flow." Over time, confluence expanded from describing literal river junctions to metaphorical mergers (e.g., ideas, cultures). The suffix -ence denotes a state or action, solidifying its noun form.
The city grew at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers.
The conference was a confluence of scientists and artists.
Their music represents a confluence of jazz and classical styles.
A dangerous confluence of events led to the economic crisis.
The valley’s fertility depends on the confluence of three streams.