The term 'STATE-OF-THE-ART' is a combination of two words, 'STATE' and 'UNION'. The phrase is used to describe something that is the most advanced or up-to-date in its field. It is often used to refer to technology, but can also be used to describe any kind of achievement or development. The phrase is derived from the idea of a UNION of states, which implies that the best of each STATE is combined to create something greater than the sum of its parts.