COLLECTION

Definition of COLLECTION

COLLECTION Noun

The word collection is a noun that refers to a group of items gathered or accumulated over time, often based on a shared theme, purpose, or interest. A collection can consist of physical objects, such as artworks, stamps, or antiques, or more abstract items, like data or ideas, organized for a specific purpose or subject.

As a noun, collection refers to a group of things that have been gathered or accumulated, typically based on a shared characteristic, theme, or interest. A collection could range from something personal, like a coin or stamp collection, to something more formal, such as an art collection displayed in a museum. For example, “He has a vast collection of vintage books,” or “The museum’s collection of modern art is world-renowned.” The items in a collection are usually intentionally assembled and often have value, whether sentimental, historical, or monetary.

Collection of Art: In the world of art, a collection refers to a curated group of artworks, often gathered by an individual or an institution, such as a museum or gallery. Art collectors often focus on acquiring specific genres, periods, or types of artwork, with the goal of preserving or showcasing valuable pieces. For example, “Her collection of Impressionist paintings is considered one of the finest in the country.” In this context, the collection represents both an aesthetic endeavor and a significant investment.

Collection of Knowledge: In academic and intellectual contexts, collection can refer to an accumulation of information, ideas, or research. A collection of knowledge might involve gathering data, texts, or studies on a particular subject. For instance, “The university’s library holds a vast collection of historical manuscripts,” or “His collection of scientific papers on climate change is invaluable to the field.” Here, the collection is seen as a tool for advancing understanding and promoting further learning.

Collecting as an Activity: Collection also refers to the activity or hobby of gathering items over time. Whether as a personal interest or a professional pursuit, collecting can involve actively seeking specific objects or materials. For example, “Collecting rare coins is a popular hobby,” or “Her collection of seashells spans several years of beach trips.” This aspect of collection highlights the process of accumulating items based on passion, curiosity, or specialization.

Charity or Fundraising Collection: In a charitable context, collection can refer to the gathering of donations, either in terms of money, goods, or services, for a particular cause or charity. For example, “The local community organized a collection for the homeless shelter,” or “A collection was held at the event to support cancer research.” In this sense, the collection serves as a means to support or provide for those in need, emphasizing communal effort and generosity.

Collection in Business: In business, collection refers to the process of gathering outstanding payments or debts. This is often a key part of financial operations, especially in industries where credit is extended. For example, “The company hired a firm to manage the collection of overdue accounts,” or “The collections department handles the recovery of unpaid bills.” Here, collection represents an essential part of maintaining cash flow and financial stability.

Digital or Virtual Collection: With the rise of digital technology, the concept of collection extends to virtual or digital items. This can include digital assets like e-books, online courses, or digital art. A collection in this sense may refer to a curated library of digital files or virtual objects that are organized or archived for easy access. For example, “Her digital collection of music spans multiple genres,” or “The museum’s collection of digital art is accessible online.”

In conclusion, collection as a noun refers to a group of gathered items or the process of accumulating things over time. Whether it’s a personal hobby, an intellectual pursuit, a charitable effort, or a business process, collection emphasizes the intentional gathering and organization of objects, knowledge, or resources. From art and coins to data and donations, the concept of collection highlights the importance of preserving and valuing things, whether for personal enjoyment, academic research, or societal benefit.

Examples of COLLECTION in a sentence

• He displayed his collection of rare stamps in a glass case.
• The museum’s collection includes ancient artifacts from Egypt.
• She built an impressive collection of vintage books over the years.
• The artist’s collection of paintings was featured in a local gallery.
• The library is hosting a collection of poetry readings this month.
• The charity started a collection to raise funds for disaster relief.
• Her collection of seashells was gathered from beaches all over the world.
• The collection of essays by various authors was published last year.

Origin of COLLECTION

The term collection has an etymology rooted in Latin and has evolved to refer to the act of gathering things or the group of items gathered, whether physically, conceptually, or metaphorically.

Semantic Context: Collection is a noun that refers to the process or act of gathering items or the group of items that have been gathered. It can be used in a variety of contexts, including the gathering of physical objects, such as stamps or coins, or the accumulation of abstract concepts, such as data or ideas. It can also refer to a curated group of things, often valued or preserved, such as a museum collection or a personal collection of artworks.

• Etymological Roots: The word collection comes from the Latin collectio, derived from collectus, the past participle of colligere, meaning “to gather together” or “to pick up.” The Latin collectio means “a gathering,” signifying the act of bringing things together into one place. The root word colligere combines com- (meaning “together” or “with”) and legere (meaning “to gather” or “to choose”). Thus, the term emphasizes the idea of things being brought together into a single entity or group.
• Historical Development: The term collection entered English in the late 14th century, first referring to the act of gathering or accumulating items. Over time, it began to encompass not just the process of gathering but also the result of this act—referring to a group or set of items that had been gathered, such as a collection of books, artwork, or artifacts. By the 17th century, collection had also acquired a more formal connotation, especially in the context of museums, galleries, and libraries, where items were purposefully gathered and curated for display or preservation.
• Applications in Various Fields: Collection is widely used in both everyday and specialized contexts. In the arts, it refers to curated sets of items, such as a collection of paintings, sculptures, or rare objects. In academic and scientific fields, collection refers to the gathering of specimens, data, or research materials. In business, collection can refer to the process of gathering money owed, such as in debt collection. It is also used to describe sets of items with specific themes, such as fashion collections, stamp collections, or sports memorabilia collections. Additionally, collection can be used to describe a group of ideas, works, or efforts gathered for a particular purpose, such as an anthology or a collection of essays.
• Current Usage: Today, collection is commonly used in reference to any organized group of items that have been gathered for a specific purpose. This includes everything from personal collections, such as coins or books, to professional collections in museums, libraries, or galleries. The term also refers to the process of gathering or accumulating, especially in contexts like data collection or charity collections. In a more figurative sense, collection is used to describe the grouping of intangible things, such as thoughts, ideas, or efforts.

The term collection has maintained its fundamental meaning from Latin, signifying the act of gathering or the group formed by gathering. Its historical evolution reflects a growing range of uses, from the accumulation of physical objects to more abstract and conceptual forms of gathering, making it a versatile term in modern language. Today, collection is used in various fields to describe both the process of bringing things together and the result of that process.