encyclopedia
Encyclopedia (noun) means a reference work containing articles on a wide range of subjects, usually arranged alphabetically or by category. Example: “She looked up the country's history in an old encyclopedia.”
How to use encyclopedia
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA big reference book (or website) covering many topics.
US spelling "encyclopedia"; UK spelling "encyclopaedia."
Word forms
encyclopedias plural, encyclopediae plural, encyclopediæ plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She looked up the country's history in an old _____.
Etymology
From New Latin encyclopaedia, based on Ancient Greek enkyklios paideia, meaning "general education" or literally "education in a circle of knowledge."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for encyclopedia
See all rhymes for encyclopedia →Frequently asked questions
What does “encyclopedia” mean?
The word “encyclopedia” means a reference work containing articles on a wide range of subjects, usually arranged alphabetically or by category. In plain terms, a big reference book (or website) covering many topics.
How do you pronounce “encyclopedia”?
“Encyclopedia” is pronounced ihn-syk-luh-PEE-dee-uh (/ɪnˌsaɪkləˈpidi.ə/ in IPA).
How do you use “encyclopedia” in a sentence?
Here is “encyclopedia” used in a sentence: “She looked up the country's history in an old encyclopedia.”
What part of speech is “encyclopedia”?
“Encyclopedia” is a noun.
Where does the word “encyclopedia” come from?
The word “encyclopedia” comes from Ancient Greek. From New Latin encyclopaedia, based on Ancient Greek enkyklios paideia, meaning "general education" or literally "education in a circle of knowledge.".
Is “encyclopedia” a common word?
“Encyclopedia” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include encyclopedia: