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.
The Bonn Challenge, a global initiative aiming to restore 350 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, has already secured commitments from 61 countries, with total pledging to restore 210 million hectares in totality. Dianne Plummer, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 Just say 'totality of the circumstances' and by the time anyone who cares finds out, the application will be granted. Ars Technica, 20 Mar. 2025 Unlike the more rare total solar eclipse, which had a path of totality through only a portion of the United States last year, the total lunar eclipse will be viewable in all of the lower 48 states. Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY, 13 Mar. 2025 During totality, the moon enters Earth's umbra—the darkest, central part of its shadow—and gradually dims. Michael D'estries, Travel + Leisure, 13 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 24 Apr. 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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