compilation

noun

com·​pi·​la·​tion ˌkäm-pə-ˈlā-shən 

 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

Synonyms

• anthology

Examples of compilation in a Sentence

The CD is a compilation of greatest hits.

the slow compilation of data

Recent Examples on the Web

The compilation didn’t differ much from several past projects, but its timing turned it into a bestseller, as the world was mourning Bowie’s creative vision and voice at the time. —Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025

The Brady list is a compilation of law enforcement officers and other staff who have credibility issues. —Aaron Valdez, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025

The exhibit will also include a video compilation of significant performances and events from 2024. —Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025

The Seoul digital component offers fans a comprehensive look at the tour’s final leg, featuring a 141-minute video compilation from the group’s closing performance at Seoul’s Olympic Stadium in March 2022. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 30 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

see compile

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for compilation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

compilation

noun

com·​pi·​la·​tion ˌkäm-pə-ˈlā-shən 

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 

: a collection of preexisting materials and data so arranged to form a new original work under the law of copyright