totality

noun

to·​tal·​i·​ty tō-ˈta-lə-tē 

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

Synonyms

• aggregate
• full
• sum
• sum total
• summation
• total
• whole

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

But no one is yet asking Maryland to take on the totality of the state’s monuments to slaveholders without regard to an individual’s other achievements. —Baltimore Sun Editorial Board, Baltimore Sun, 11 Apr. 2024

Cloud cover produced less-than-ideal viewing conditions in parts of Ohio and traffic clogged some roads as eclipse watchers squeezed into small towns and parks along the 115-mile path of totality. —Dan Horn, The Enquirer, 9 Apr. 2024

The next time Wisconsin will be on the path of totality for a total solar eclipse will be Sept. 14, 2099. —Steven Martinez, Journal Sentinel, 8 Apr. 2024

The totality of that experience is also hard to put into words. —Lizz Schumer, Peoplemag, 3 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing totality

• in its/their totality

Kids Definition

totality

noun

to·​tal·​i·​ty tō-ˈtal-ət-ē 

plural totalities

1

: a combined amount : sum, whole

2

: the quality or state of being total : entirety

rejected the scheme in its totality