summation

noun

sum·​ma·​tion (ˌ)sə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: the act or process of forming a sum : addition

2

: sum, total

3

: cumulative action or effect

especially : the process by which a sequence of stimuli that are individually inadequate to produce a response are cumulatively able to induce a nerve impulse

4

: a final part of an argument reviewing points made and expressing conclusions

summational

(ˌ)sə-ˈmā-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Synonyms

• aggregate
• full
• sum
• sum total
• total
• totality
• whole

Examples of summation in a Sentence

A summation can be found at the end of the report.

We gave a summation of our discovery.

The defense attorneys and prosecutors are set to make their final summations today.

Recent Examples on the Web

In summation, the Trofeo handles supremely but doesn’t feel as powerful, whereas the Folgore handles well and has serious acceleration muscle. —James Morris, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025

His summation of the lid as synonymous with overwrought, hyperpolitical freestyle rap is … well, perfect. —Graham Techler, Vulture, 28 Feb. 2025

The For My Fans Tour date doubled as a survey of the Queen of Hip Hop Soul’s career and a summation of her triumphant journey from a street-smart artist who burst on the scene to a superstar who overcame everything from serious depression to substance abuse. —Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 15 Mar. 2025

The jury of seven women and five men received the case at 4 p.m. after spending the day hearing two days of final summations from each side. —Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 14 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1760, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing summation

• spatial summation
• temporal summation

Rhymes for summation

• ablation
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cessation
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation
• collation

Kids Definition

summation

noun

sum·​ma·​tion (ˌ)sə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: the act or process of forming a sum : addition

2

: sum entry 1 sense 2, total

3

: a final part of an argument reviewing points made and expressing conclusions

Medical Definition

summation

noun

sum·​ma·​tion (ˌ)sə-ˈmā-shən 

: cumulative action or effect

especially : the process by which a sequence of stimuli that are individually inadequate to produce a response are cumulatively able to induce a nerve impulse see spatial summation, temporal summation

Legal Definition

summation

noun

sum·​ma·​tion sə-ˈmā-shən 

: closing argument