Alloys are a combination of two or more metals that are mixed together in order to enhance their physical and chemical properties. Some synonyms for alloys include amalgamations, composites, mixtures, blends, and fusions. An amalgamation is a mixture of metals that are blended together to form a single material. The term composite is used to describe a material made up of two or more different substances that are physically combined. Mixtures are a combination of two or more elements or compounds that do not chemically combine. Blends refer to a combination of different elements in which each retains its individual properties. Finally, fusions describe a mixture of two or more metals that are joined together by melting or welding.