compilation

noun

com·​pi·​la·​tion ˌkäm-pə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce compilation (audio)
 also  -ˌpī-
1
: the act or process of compiling
the annual compilation of data
2
: something compiled
a compilation of hit songs
a compilation of vehicular accident reports

Examples of compilation in a Sentence

The CD is a compilation of greatest hits. the slow compilation of data
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the United Kingdom — where The Beatles got off to a fantastic start before taking over the world — the group’s presence can always be felt on the charts via a handful of compilations. Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 Earlier this month, All Things Go announced the first installment of its forthcoming benefit compilation, with 100% of the proceeds going to their longtime collaborators at The Ally Coalition (TAC), a leading nonprofit dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth, founded by Jack and Rachel Antonoff. Jem Aswad, Variety, 23 June 2025 Social media is flooded with compilations of her being whacked and hitting the deck. Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 22 June 2025 New Music Latin is a compilation of the best new Latin songs and albums recommended by Billboard and Billboard Español editors. Luisa Calle, Billboard, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for compilation

Word History

Etymology

see compile

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of compilation was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Compilation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compilation. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

compilation

noun
com·​pi·​la·​tion ˌkäm-pə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce compilation (audio)
1
: the act or process of compiling
2
: something compiled
especially : a book of materials gathered from other books

Legal Definition

compilation

noun
com·​pi·​la·​tion ˌkäm-pə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce compilation (audio)
: a collection of preexisting materials and data so arranged to form a new original work under the law of copyright

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