meld
meld Lexical Profile
meld Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To blend, combine, or merge smoothly into a unified whole.
"The architect managed to meld classical proportions with sleek modern materials."
To declare or lay down a combination of playing cards for a score in card games such as rummy or pinochle.
"In canasta, players must reach a minimum point requirement before they can meld their first set of cards."
• noun
A harmonious blend, mixture, or combination of different elements or qualities.
"The restaurant's menu offers a creative meld of traditional French technique and Southeast Asian flavors."
A set or run of playing cards declared or laid down on the table to score points in games such as rummy, pinochle, or canasta.
"She laid down a three-card meld of kings on her final turn to win the round."
• Rhymes for meld
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
In the sense of blending or combining, the word emerged in the early 20th century as a portmanteau of 'melt' and 'weld'. In card games, it derives from German melden ('to announce or declare'), from Old High German meldōn.