Collection

Definition

Collection is a noun. It refers to the action or process of gathering items or a group of things accumulated for a particular purpose or due to shared characteristics. It may also refer to the act of retrieving or collecting payments, donations, or items.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈlɛkʃən/
• Respelling: kuh-LEK-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈlɛkʃən/
• Respelling: kuh-LEK-shuhn

The pronunciation of "collection" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "collection" originates from the Latin "collectio," meaning "a gathering or assembly." The root verb "colligere" means "to gather together," and it was adopted into Middle English with similar meanings of gathering items or individuals.

Derivatives

• Collector (noun)
• Collective (adjective)
• Collectable/Collectible (noun/adjective)
• Collect (verb)
• Collectedly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Gathering
• Assembly
• Compilation

Antonyms

• Dispersion
• Separation
• Distribution

Usage

The term "collection" is used to refer to a group of similar items, as in "a collection of books." It can also mean the act of gathering or accumulating, as in "tax collection efforts were increased."

Related Terms

• Accumulate: To gather or collect items over time.
• Set: A group of similar items often treated as a unit.
• Archive: A place or collection of historical documents or items.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A group of things gathered together: Refers to a set or group of items collected for a particular purpose.
  • Example: "Her art collection includes pieces from around the world."
• The act or process of gathering items or people: Describes the process or activity of collecting.
  • Example: "The collection of donations took place at the event."
• The retrieval or accumulation of payments, items, or data: Often used in contexts related to financial or item collection activities.
  • Example: "The company focuses on debt collection services."