composition

The definition of composition is the act of putting something together, or the combination of elements or qualities.

(noun)

An example of a composition is a flower arrangement.
An example of a composition is a manuscript.
An example of a composition is how the flowers and vase are arranged in Van Gogh's painting Sunflowers.

See composition in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the act of composing, or putting together a whole by combining parts; specif.,
1. the putting together of words, esp. in a correct and effective way; art of writing
2. the creation of musical works
the makeup of a thing or person; aggregate of ingredients or qualities and manner of their combination; constitution
that which is composed; specif.,
1. a mixture of several parts or ingredients
2. a musical work: Mozart's compositions for string quartet
3. an exercise in writing done as schoolwork
an arrangement of the parts of a work of art so as to form a unified, harmonious whole
an agreement, or settlement, often by compromise, as by the creditors of a potential bankrupt
the state or quality of being composite
Linguis. the device or process of forming compounds from two or more base morphemes
Printing the work or skill of setting matter for printing

Origin: ME composicioun < L compositio, a putting together < compositus: see composite

Related Forms:

See composition in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. The combining of distinct parts or elements to form a whole.
b. The manner in which such parts are combined or related.
c. General makeup: the changing composition of the electorate.
d. The result or product of composing; a mixture or compound.
Arrangement of artistic parts so as to form a unified whole.
a. The art or act of composing a musical or literary work.
b. A work of music, literature, or art, or its structure or organization.
A short essay, especially one written as an academic exercise.
Law A settlement whereby the creditors of a debtor about to enter bankruptcy agree, in return for some financial consideration, usually proffered immediately, to the discharge of their respective claims on receipt of payment which is in a lesser amount than that actually owed on the claim.
Linguistics The formation of compounds from separate words.
Printing Typesetting.