Composites

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Materials formed by integrating multiple components to create enhanced properties
2. Substances that are produced by blending diverse materials to optimize performance and durability
3. Materials created by combining different components to achieve improved strength and functionality

Etymology: "Composites" is the plural of "composite," which English borrowed from Middle French "composite," itself drawn from Latin "compositus," the past participle of "compōnō," meaning "put together." The Latin verb was built from "com-" (together) and "pōnere" (to place), so the core idea of the word is simply things placed side by side and joined. The same Latin root produced a surprising family of English words. "Compost" and "compote" are doublets of "composite," meaning they descend from the same Latin source but reached English by different routes and took on different senses. "Compost" is a mixture of decaying matter gathered into a heap, and "compote" is fruit stewed together in syrup. Each is a mixture of ingredients brought together, which is exactly what the word means in its engineering sense. In modern usage, a composite material is one such as fibreglass or reinforced concrete, where two or more distinct substances combine to perform better than either would alone. The Latin image of putting parts together has been applied quite literally to this combination of materials.

Synonyms: mixtures, blends, combinations, compounds, assemblages

Antonyms: singles, individuals, units, solitaires, elements