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

• album
• anthology
• collectanea
• compendium
• florilegium
• miscellany
• reader

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 New York Giants quarterback shared his own post celebrating the milestone with a sweet compilation of the couple throughout the years, which also included cute snaps with their kids. —Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 25 Apr. 2025

That huge figure includes everything from full-length studio efforts to live recordings, reissues, compilations, and other unique projects. —Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025

New Music Latin is a compilation of the best new Latin songs and albums recommended by Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors. —Griselda Flores, Billboard, 25 Apr. 2025

Here's what to know about haints, including a compilation of viewers' genuine reactions to Coogler's subtle reference. —Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 24 Apr. 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