totality

noun

to·​tal·​i·​ty tō-ˈta-lə-tē How to pronounce totality (audio)
plural totalities
1
: an aggregate amount : sum, whole
2
a
: the quality or state of being total : wholeness
b
: the phase of an eclipse during which it is total : state of total eclipse

Examples of totality in a Sentence

the totality of human knowledge the totality of the stars in the universe can only be loosely guessed at
Recent Examples on the Web Scammers, of course, recognize times when we're all stuck in traffic, such as when Cleveland and other areas in Ohio were in the path of totality for the 2024 eclipse on April 8. Susan Tompor, Detroit Free Press, 30 Apr. 2024 During the totality, the pair played 'Space Oddity' by David Bowie. Jordan Greene, Peoplemag, 10 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for totality 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'totality.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of totality was in 1598

Dictionary Entries Near totality

Cite this Entry

“Totality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/totality. Accessed 6 May. 2024.

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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