totality

noun

to·​tal·​i·​ty tō-ˈta-lə-tē How to pronounce totality (audio)
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 totalityPhilip Landrigan, quoted at NPR.org
b
: the phase of an eclipse during which it is total : the state of total eclipse

Examples of totality in a Sentence

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.
Be at sea level on the eastern side for 4 minutes, 32 seconds of totality. Jamie Carter, Space.com, 19 July 2025 Duration of totality: longest near/in Luxor, Egypt — the longest total eclipse on land between 2009 and 2114. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025 At the center of the lineup is a high dynamic range (HDR) portrait of totality, consisting of approximately 200 shots with varying exposure times. Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 July 2025 The moon will turn deep shades of rusty red throughout the more than hourlong totality, thus producing a vibrant visual in the night sky. Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for totality

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of totality was in 1598

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Cite this Entry

“Totality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/totality. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

totality

noun
to·​tal·​i·​ty tō-ˈtal-ət-ē How to pronounce totality (audio)
plural totalities
1
: a combined amount : sum, whole
2
: the quality or state of being total : entirety
rejected the scheme in its totality

More from Merriam-Webster on totality

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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