encyclopedia

Word family

• encyclopedic
  adjectiveB2
• encyclopedist
  nounC1

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

An encyclopedia provides detailed articles on a wide range of topics, ideal for gaining a broad understanding of a subject. A dictionary focuses on individual words — their meanings, spellings, and pronunciations — rather than on topics. An almanac is a yearly publication with current facts, statistics, and predictions, useful for quick reference on recent data. A thesaurus lists synonyms and antonyms of words, helping you find alternative expressions. If you want to learn about the history of Japan, use an encyclopedia. If you need the definition of a word, use a dictionary. If you want a synonym for 'interesting,' reach for a thesaurus. If you need this year's population figures, check an almanac.

Common collocations

Etymology

The word entered English through the Latin 'encyclopaedia,' which came from the Greek phrase 'enkuklios paideia' (ἐγκύκλιος παιδεία), meaning 'general education' or 'circle of learning.' In ancient Greece, the idea was that a well-educated person should study the full range of major subjects — forming a complete circle of knowledge. The modern meaning of a book containing that circle of knowledge took shape in the 1500s, when authors began compiling comprehensive reference works.