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Encyclopedia: meaning, definitions and examples

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encyclopedia

 

[ ɪnˌsɪkloʊˈpiːdiə ]

Noun
Other
Context #1 | Noun

book, reference

An encyclopedia is a comprehensive reference work containing information on a wide variety of subjects or a particular branch of knowledge. It typically includes articles organized alphabetically, covering topics from history to science, art, and culture. Encyclopedias serve as a summary of human knowledge and are often used for educational purposes. With the advent of the internet, many encyclopedias are now available in digital format, making them easily accessible to a wider audience.

Synonyms

compendium, dictionary, geek book, reference book

Examples of usage

  • I consulted the encyclopedia for information on ancient civilizations.
  • The library has a vast collection of encyclopedias covering different subjects.

Translations

Translations of the word "encyclopedia" in other languages:

🇵🇹 enciclopédia

🇮🇳 विश्वकोश

🇩🇪 Enzyklopädie

🇮🇩 ensiklopedia

🇺🇦 енциклопедія

🇵🇱 encyklopedia

🇯🇵 百科事典

🇫🇷 encyclopédie

🇪🇸 enciclopedia

🇹🇷 ansiklopedi

🇰🇷 백과사전

🇸🇦 موسوعة

🇨🇿 encyklopedie

🇸🇰 encyklopédia

🇨🇳 百科全书

🇸🇮 enciklopedija

🇮🇸 alfræðibók

🇰🇿 энциклопедия

🇬🇪 ენციკლოპედია

🇦🇿 ensiklopediyadır

🇲🇽 enciclopedia

Word origin

The word 'encyclopedia' originates from the Greek 'enkuklios paideia,' meaning 'general education' or 'circle of knowledge.' The term was first used in the 16th century and referred to comprehensive works that aimed to encompass all human knowledge. The modern concept of an encyclopedia began to take shape during the Renaissance when scholars aimed to compile and systematically organize knowledge. The publication of notable encyclopedias, such as 'Encyclopédie' by Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d'Alembert in the 18th century, marked significant milestones in the evolution of encyclopedic literature, contributing to the democratization of knowledge dissemination. As technology advanced, encyclopedias transitioned from print to digital formats, with platforms like Wikipedia revolutionizing the way information is shared and accessed globally.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,082, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.