syneresis

noun pl. -·ses′-sēz′

1. the drawing together of two consecutive vowels or syllables into one syllable, esp. so as to form a diphthong
2. synizesis
3. Chem. contraction of a gel so that liquid is exuded at the surface, as in the separation of serum from a blood clot

Etymology: ModL < Gr synairesis, a taking or drawing together < syn-, together + hairein, to take