plural compositions
1
: the way in which something is put together or arranged
the painting's unique composition
: the combination of parts or elements that make up something
Each rock has a slightly different composition. [=makeup]
the changing composition of the country's population
the composition of a chemical compound
2
: a piece of writing
Is this poem an original composition? [=did you write this poem yourself?]
especially
: a brief essay written as a school assignment
The teacher reminded us to hand in our compositions at the end of class.
3
: a written piece of music and especially one that is very long or complex
a famous classical composition
4
: the art or process of writing words or music
She studies musical theory and composition.
Cite this Entry
“Composition.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/composition. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.
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