merger fusion meld union blend mix unification amalgamation conflation mixture connecting coupling alliance melding reconciliation confederation hookup incorporation linking merging affiliation coalition mergence catenation consolidation association combining joining connection junction coalescence combination concatenation integration interlocking linkage defragmentation federation assimilation fusing attachment uniting beginning introduction onset start commencement dawn outset kickoff launch opening development induction incipiency takeoff incipience debut instigation overture activation initiation dawning inauguration establishment unfolding developing opener prelude relationship connexion bond liaison intimacy link romance passion love courtship flirtation rendezvous involvement affair partnership fling agreement closing closure friendliness friendship harmony juncture kindness marriage peace sympathy unity whole conformity concord