noun

anthology

an-THOL-uh-jee

Anthology (noun) means a book containing a selection of poems, stories or essays, usually by different writers and chosen around a theme. Example: “Her first published poem appeared in a school anthology.”

noun

A book containing a selection of poems, stories or essays, usually by different writers and chosen around a theme.

"Her first published poem appeared in a school anthology."

"The anthology gathers forty years of nature writing."

A collection of recorded music, films or episodes brought together in one release or series.

"The label released a three-disc anthology of her early singles."

"Each episode of the anthology tells a self-contained story."

How to Use Anthology

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA book or set that gathers work by different people in one place.

When to use it

Neutral; standard in publishing, music and broadcasting.

Memory tip

The plural is 'anthologies', and the verb 'anthologise' means to include a piece in an anthology.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

collection → omnibus → compendium →

Common pairings

poetry anthology edit an anthology anthology series appear in an anthology

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Her first published poem appeared in a school _____.

Etymology

From Greek anthologia 'a gathering of flowers', from anthos 'flower' and -logia 'collection'.

Origin: Greek

Synonyms

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collection compilation selection reader miscellany box set

Related Words

group choice vote collection option museum appeal bunch

Rhymes for anthology

eulogy apology zoology biology ecology analogy geology trilogy etiology pedagogy theology ideology

See all rhymes for anthology →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an anthology and a collection?

A collection usually gathers work by a single author, while an anthology gathers work by several different authors around a theme, period or form. In music and television the words are used more loosely, and 'anthology' often signals a curated selection.

What is an anthology series?

It is a television or radio series in which each episode or season tells a complete, separate story, often with a new cast. The link between instalments is a theme, a tone or a format rather than a continuing plot.

Where does the word anthology come from?

It comes from Greek and literally means a gathering of flowers. Early Greek collections of short poems were pictured as bouquets, each poem picked for its beauty.

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