noun
C2
Proficient
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
1
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."
2
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 notesIn 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
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'.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for anthology
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.
What is the meaning of anthology?
"anthology" (noun) means a book containing a selection of poems, stories or essays, usually by different writers and chosen around a theme.
