General:
* Combined: This is the most basic definition. It means to bring two or more things together to form one.
* Example: "The two companies merged to form a larger entity."
* Blended: This implies that the things being combined are integrated and inseparable.
* Example: "The two paintings were merged into a single masterpiece."
* United: This focuses on the act of joining together and becoming one.
* Example: "The two groups merged to form a powerful coalition."
Specific contexts:
* In technology: Merging often refers to the act of combining two files or data sources.
* Example: "I merged the two spreadsheets into one."
* In finance: Merging often refers to the combination of two companies, usually through a merger and acquisition.
* Example: "The bank merged with a smaller financial institution."
* In language: Merging can refer to the process of two sounds combining into a single sound.
* Example: "The sounds 'm' and 'n' often merge in informal speech."
To better understand the meaning of "merged," consider the context in which it is used. For example:
* "The two rivers merged at the delta." This means the rivers combined to form a larger river.
* "The two photographs were merged into one." This means the photographs were combined to create a single image.
Ultimately, the best definition of "merged" depends on the specific situation.