synergy

In architecture, the augmented strength of systems, where the strength of a wall is greater than the added total of its individual units.

synergy

In medicine, the ‘cooperative’ action of two or more drugs, muscles, or organs; applied especially to drugs whose combined action is more powerful than their simple effects added together.

synergy

Combination of two entities where the combined entity is greater than the sum of the parts. Synergy is often cited as a reason for two companies merging, or for one taking over another. For example, when a retailer merges with a distributor there are clear synergies that mean both companies benefit. However, often synergy is taken to mean overlap. This usage often foreshadows wholesale redundancies in the areas of overlap.