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

Instead, the database appears to be a compilation of credentials stolen over time from past breaches and malware infections. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 3 Feb. 2026

Rather than offering comfort, however, the rocking cradle, accompanied by a compilation of folkloric lullabies, introduces a sense of unease, inviting viewers to consider how political systems shape lives from their earliest moments. —Anne Gelhaus, Mercury News, 1 Feb. 2026

KPop Demon Hunter’s soundtrack itself was nominated for best compilation soundtrack for visual media. —Nicole Fell, HollywoodReporter, 1 Feb. 2026

During Black History Month, this Karma’s World compilation offers families a joyful way to spark conversations about culture and representation. —Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 30 Jan. 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