ENGLISH
REFERENCE

hybrid

n. · adj.
US //ˈhaɪbɹəd// UK //hˈaɪbɹɪd// hy·brid
  1. 1 biological mix (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Science

    a plant or animal whose parents are from two different species or varieties.

    the offspring of two plants or animals of different species or varieties, such as a mule.

    Example

    The mule is a well-known hybrid of a horse and a donkey.

    Example

    Botanists developed this specific hybrid to ensure the crop could withstand both extreme drought and local soil parasites.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'of'.
    • purebred
  2. 2 a combination of things (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    something that is made by combining two different elements or styles.

    a thing made by combining two different elements, often to leverage the advantages of both.

    Example

    The new music style is a hybrid of jazz and traditional folk.

    Example

    The building's architecture is a curious hybrid, blending brutalist concrete structures with delicate glass facades typical of the modern era.
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  1. 3 using two power sources (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    using two different types of power, especially a car that uses both petrol and electricity.

    relating to a vehicle that utilizes two or more distinct power sources, typically an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.

    Example

    She decided to buy a hybrid car to save money on fuel and reduce her carbon footprint.

    Example

    The city council replaced the entire bus fleet with hybrid models to meet the new urban air quality standards.

  2. 4 mixed work or learning (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a way of working or studying that combines being in a building with working from home.

    denoting a model of professional or educational engagement that integrates both in-person and remote participation.

    Example

    Many companies now offer hybrid working, so staff only come to the office twice a week.

    Example

    The university adopted a hybrid learning approach, delivering core lectures online while maintaining small, face-to-face seminars for practical discussion.
Origin

From Latin hybrida, a variant of hibrida (“a mongrel; specifically, an offspring of a tame sow and a wild boar”). Attested since 1601, but rare before c. 1850.

Word family

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