n.1. in testing and experimentation, the situation in which prior knowledge, expectations, or other factors relating to the variable under study are permitted to influence the collection and interpretation of data about that variable. 2. the mixing together of two or more discrete percepts, such as might occur on the Rorschach Inkblot Test or the Machover Draw-a-Person Test. 3. the creation of a neologism by combining a part of one word with a part of another, usually resulting in a word that is unintelligible.