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 of compilation

• 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

In the compilation, Collin can be seen wearing a black sweater, with the sleeves rolled up to show his large arm tattoo, gray trousers and black shoes. — Michelle Lee, PEOPLE, 26 June 2026

The last live album in the set (previously released as part of the compilation Still) is from the band’s final show. — Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 25 June 2026

Sometimes Billboard does not attach a full-length or EP to any one act, but rather stipulates it as a compilation. — Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026

She was especially drawn to Kirk Franklin and his 2006 compilation album, Songs for the Storm. — Joseph Hudak, Rolling Stone, 2 July 2026

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