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 totality.Philip 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.
In Game 6, the Knicks made far too many errors that, in totality, amounted to an avalanche of Pacers points. Joe Vardon, New York Times, 31 May 2025 In totality, the Paul–Chavez Jr. card, which is also strengthened by Zurdo Ramirez’s unified title defense against Dorticós, makes this a strong summer boxing event. Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025 Silverman said that circumstantial evidence must be viewed in totality to establish its validity. Greg Fisher, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2025 They will be addressed in totality by mediation, if all sides commit to solving the disputes outside the courtrooms. Jon Wilner, Mercury News, 28 Mar. 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 5 Jun. 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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