What does synthetical mean?
Synthetical means relating to synthesis, the process of combining elements or components to form a more complex whole. In scientific writing, it can describe a compound produced by chemical synthesis, especially when contrasted with substances identified through analysis or occurring naturally. More broadly, it can indicate that something is artificial, manufactured, or constructed rather than directly obtained from nature. The word has a formal, somewhat old-fashioned quality and appears much less often than the related adjective “synthetic.” For example, a historical discussion might refer to “synthetical chemistry,” meaning the deliberate production of compounds through chemical reactions. In contemporary prose, “synthetic” will usually be clearer and more idiomatic, but “synthetical” remains useful in technical contexts where the emphasis is specifically on synthesis as a method. Its association with scientific method also gives it an intellectual and analytical tone, recalling the tradition of understanding substances by constructing them and studying their properties.
adjectiveRelating to synthesis or to something made by combining separate components. In chemistry, it specifically describes a substance or process produced through synthesis rather than obtained by analysis or naturally occurring.
- Relating to synthesis or the combining of components into a whole.
- In chemistry, relating to substances or methods produced through synthesis.
- Broadly, synthetic or artificial rather than naturally occurring.
"The researchers compared the compound's properties with those of its synthetical counterpart."
"The text explains the principles behind synthetical chemistry in an accessible way."
"For most modern purposes, “synthetic” is a more natural choice than “synthetical.”"
“Synthetical” preserves the old scientific idea that the best route to understanding matter can be to build it rather than take it apart.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does synthetical come from?
The word comes through Latin from Greek synthetikos, a form related to synthēsis, meaning “a putting together” or “composition.” The Greek root combines syn-, meaning “together,” with thesis, meaning “a placing” or “setting.” In English, the term developed particularly in the language of chemistry before becoming a more general formal alternative to “synthetic.”
Related word forms
How synthetical is actually used
This is a formal, uncommon adjective. It is encountered especially in scientific and historical writing; in ordinary modern usage, “synthetic” is generally preferred.
Easily confused with synthetical
“Synthetic” is the common modern adjective, while “synthetical” is a more formal and less frequent term, especially associated with chemical synthesis.
“Synthetical” describes something conceptually or by its method of production, whereas “synthized” describes a substance that has actually been produced by synthesis.