What does merge mean?
To merge means to bring separate things together so that they form one combined whole. The word can describe physical joining, such as vehicles entering the same lane, as well as organizational or documentary combination, such as two companies becoming one or several files being combined. It is also used when one thing disappears into another, as in a smaller company merging with a larger one or a document being incorporated into a report. Merge is generally neutral, although the noun merger can sometimes suggest that two parties have agreed to combine. In computing, the verb often refers to integrating data, files, or version histories. The word comes from Old English and ultimately from a Germanic root associated with dipping, immersing, or plunging something into another substance, reflecting the idea of two things becoming indistinctly joined.
verbTo combine or unite two or more things so that they become one, or to become joined in this way. It can also refer to combining documents, organizations, or other separate entities.
- To combine or unite two or more things so that they become one.
- To become joined or absorbed into another entity, such as a vehicle joining traffic, a company combining with another, or one document being incorporated into another.
- To combine information or data from separate sources, especially in computing or document processing.
"The two departments merged to create a more efficient service."
"The small publisher merged with an established literary press."
"The program can merge records from several databases into a single list."
In road design, a merge is where separate lanes become one, so the word describes both a practical traffic feature and the broader process of joining forces.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does merge come from?
The English verb descends from Old English mergian, meaning to immerse, plunge, or combine, and ultimately from Proto-Germanic *merganą, related to a root meaning to sink or immerse. The development from immersing or plunging into something to combining or uniting reflects the idea of elements becoming one. The word is also cognate with forms related to immersion and submersion, including immerse, immersion, and submerge.
Related word forms
How merge is actually used
Merge is neutral and common in formal and informal contexts. In computing, it often describes combining files, records, or changes without creating a separate conflict. The noun merger is especially common for a business combination or a formal arrangement involving joining organizations.
Easily confused with merge
To merge is to combine or unite separate things, whereas to emerge is to come out, become apparent, or develop from a situation.