totality

noun

to·​tal·​i·​ty tō-ˈta-lə-tē How to pronounce totality (audio)
plural totalities
Synonyms of totalitynext
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

Synonyms of totality

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Examples of totality in a Sentence

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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.
What does touch Earth will create an ellipse of totality over the far north of Russia. — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Since this is only a partial eclipse, the eclipse will not reach totality, and a sliver of the moon will still be visible. — Julia Gomez, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026 This is most apparent in totality, but even partial eclipses change the moon’s hue. — Idaho Statesman, 26 Aug. 2026 For many skywatchers, the difference between 96% and 100% will be surprisingly subtle — the complete opposite to a total solar eclipse, where a 99% eclipse bears no resemblance whatsoever to totality. — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026 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

Phrases Containing totality

Rhymes for totality

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Browse Nearby Words

totalitarianize
totality
totalization
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Cite this Entry

“Totality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/totality. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about totality

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