anthology
UK: ænˈθɒlədʒi | US: ænˈθɑːlədʒi
n. a published collection of poems, stories, or other writings, typically by various authors
n. a selection of artistic works (e.g., music, films) compiled into a single volume or series
anthology = anth<flower> + ology<study/collection>
- anth (from Greek anthos, meaning "flower") → metaphorically represents "choice selections" (like picking flowers).
- ology (from Greek -logia, meaning "study" or "collection") → denotes a systematic gathering.
Etymology Origin:
The word anthology originated in Greek as anthologia ("flower-gathering"), referring to collections of literary "blossoms" (poems/epigrams). Medieval scribes later adapted it to describe compiled texts. The modern sense of "curated works" reflects its floral metaphor—selecting the finest pieces, much like picking flowers.
The library displayed an anthology of 20th-century poetry.
She contributed a short story to a feminist anthology.
The film anthology explores themes of identity across five directors.
This music anthology spans jazz from the 1920s to the 1950s.
Professors often assign anthologies to expose students to diverse voices.