com·bi·na·tion n
1 a: an alliance of individuals, states, or esp. corporations united to achieve a common (as economic) end see also combination in restraint of trade compare joint venture 1, merger
b: conspiracy
2: a union of old or new elements or parts that is patentable because it produces a new and useful result compare aggregation 2, equivalent
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.