notation

noun

no·​ta·​tion nō-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce notation (audio)
Synonyms of notationnext
1
2
a
: the act, process, method, or an instance of representing by a system or set of marks, signs, figures, or characters
b
: a system of characters, symbols, or abbreviated expressions used in an art or science or in mathematics or logic to express technical facts or quantities
notational adjective

Examples of notation in a Sentence

a mathematical notation for computer programming he had scribbled his notation so quickly I couldn't read it
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.
The collection also features a 112-page book, which includes outtakes from Rock’s cover shoot and photos of handwritten lyrics, musical notation, journal entries, and letters to friends, as well as memorabilia from the time. Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 19 Feb. 2026 Each winner is designated amongst its field of fellow nominees in bold and with a WINNER notation next to it. Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 15 Feb. 2026 Some plaintiffs are also asking that all disciplinary notations from their academic files be removed. Mirna Alsharif, NBC news, 10 Feb. 2026 In an essay from 1927, the American composer Henry Cowell identified certain shortcomings of Western musical notation. Olivia Giovetti, Harpers Magazine, 27 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for notation

Word History

Etymology

Latin notation-, notatio, from notare to note

First Known Use

1584, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of notation was in 1584

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Notation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/notation. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

notation

noun
no·​ta·​tion nō-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce notation (audio)
1
: note entry 2 sense 3a
make notations on a paper
2
: the act of noting
3
: a system of marks, signs, figures, or characters used to give specified information
musical notation
scientific notation
notational
-shnəl How to pronounce notation (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
adjective

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