totality

noun

to·​tal·​i·​ty tō-ˈta-lə-tē 

plural totalities

1

: an aggregate amount : sum, whole

the totality of human knowledge

2

a

: the quality or state of being total : wholeness

This … looks at the problem globally, in its totality

—Philip Landrigan, quoted at NPR.org

b

: the phase of an eclipse during which it is total : the state of total eclipse

Synonyms of totality

• total
• sum
• whole

Examples of totality in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Bank of America’s new BofA Rewards program is a signal that bank loyalty is moving into a broader era—one where rewards are tied not just to spending, but to the totality of a customer’s financial relationship, lifestyle preferences and life stage. —Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026

No, Ware wouldn’t be the totality of a Heat package for Giannis, likely less coveted than say a Heat package of picks, or even the leading man from elsewhere (Jaylen Brown from the Celtics, Alperen Sengun from the Rockets, perhaps Paolo Banchero from the Magic). —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 23 May 2026

Luxury expedition yacht Aqua Lares will cruise along the path of totality, deep into East Greenland to the Scoresby Sund. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 15 May 2026

The Spurs understand their assignments, adhere to the game plan and have, in totality, executed much better over the course of this series. —Jon Krawczynski, New York Times, 13 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing totality

• in its/their totality

Rhymes for totality

• banality
• bestiality
• brutality
• carnality
• centrality
• chirality
• duality
• fatality
• finality
• formality
• frugality
• legality

Kids Definition

totality

noun

to·​tal·​i·​ty tō-ˈtal-ət-ē 

plural totalities

1

: a combined amount : sum, whole

2

: the quality or state of being total : entirety

rejected the scheme in its totality