The word "synchronise" is commonly spelled with a "z" in American English, while the British English spelling uses an "s". This can be explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), where the letter "z" represents the voiced alveolar fricative /z/, while the letter "s" represents the unvoiced alveolar fricative /s/. In British English, the spelling of "synchronise" reflects the unvoiced /s/ sound, while American English uses the voiced /z/ sound. This difference in spelling highlights the pronunciation variations between the two dialects.
Synchronise, or synchronize in American English, is a verb that refers to the act of coordinating or aligning actions, processes, or events in time or in a systematic manner. It involves ensuring that different elements or entities operate or occur together simultaneously, maintaining a consistent timing or rhythm.
In the context of technology or devices, synchronise means to establish a harmonized connection or match between two or more electronic devices or systems. This process enables them to exchange and update information or data in a coordinated manner, ensuring that they are all up to date and in line with the most recent changes.
In the realm of music or performance, synchronise involves aligning different musicians or performers in a way that allows them to play or act in perfect unison. This coordination ensures that various instruments, voices, or actions complement each other, producing a cohesive and harmonious result.
The term synchronise can also be used in a broader sense beyond technology and music. For example, it can refer to the act of coordinating schedules, activities, or plans among individuals or groups to ensure that they occur simultaneously or are consistent with one another.
Overall, synchronise is a verb that encompasses the idea of achieving harmony, coordination, and simultaneous action among different entities in various contexts, whether relating to technology, music, or general coordination of activities.
To agree in time; to be simultaneous.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word synchronise is derived from the Greek word synkhronizein, which is a combination of syn (together) and khronos (time). Synkhronizein means to happen at the same time or to occur simultaneously. The word was later adapted into Latin as synchronizare before it eventually entered the English language as synchronize.