recombine
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌriːkəmˈbaɪn/
KK: /ˌriːˈkɒm.baɪn/
intransitive verb
Definition
To combine things again to create new forms or arrangements.
Example
The scientists were able to recombine the DNA strands to study their effects.
Tense Forms
Past: recombined
Past Participle: recombined
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how genes recombine in nature?
Yeah, it's fascinating how new traits can appear in offspring.
Exactly! I wonder how scientists study that process.
They must use some complex methods to track how genes recombine.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
reunite
merge
blend
Antonyms
separate
divide
disconnect
transitive verb
Definition
To put things together again after they have been separated or combined in a different way.
Example
Scientists can recombine DNA to create new genetic variations.
Tense Forms
Past: recombined
Past Participle: recombined
Conversation
I was thinking about how we could recombine our project ideas.
That's a great idea! I think they could really complement each other.
Exactly! If we recombine them, we might come up with something even better.
Root Explanation
Recombine → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "combinare" (meaning to combine). The word "recombine" means to combine again or to put together once more.
Memory Tip
Think of putting things together 'again' ('re-') — that's why recombine means to combine once more.
Visually Confused Words
precombine
combine
combiner
combined
myrmecobine