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

It was followed by several other compilation discs, including the now-out-of-print three-CD box set Across the Great Divide. —Erik Pedersen, Deadline, 21 Jan. 2025

Even the legendary Bonnie Raitt launches a set on the roster, as one of her compilations starts at No. 6. —Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025

The video shows a compilation of chaotic scenes as the pup is left to her own devices—pawing at her water bowl, pulling on the blinds and destroying cushions by pulling out all the stuffing. —Justin Gest, Newsweek, 20 Jan. 2025

Would every year get one great show or a compilation of the best moments? —Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 18 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see compile

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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