Encyclopedic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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encyclopedic
[ษnหsaษชklษหpiหdษชk ]
Definition
knowledge context
The term 'encyclopedic' refers to a comprehensive and thorough range of knowledge encompassing many areas of study. It is often used to describe a work or a person's understanding that is vast and detailed, covering a wide array of subjects. An encyclopedic mind is one that retains information across diverse topics and can recall it effectively. The term is frequently associated with encyclopedias, which are compendiums of knowledge providing summaries and explanations on numerous subjects.
Synonyms
all-encompassing, comprehensive, cosmopolitan, extensive.
Examples of usage
- She has an encyclopedic knowledge of art history.
- The lecture was truly encyclopedic, covering everything from physics to philosophy.
- His encyclopedic approach to the subject impressed the audience.
- The encyclopedic reference book was a valuable resource for researchers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Many famous encyclopedic works have shaped the landscape of knowledge, like 'Encyclopรฆdia Britannica', first published in 1768.
- The 'Encyclopรฉdie', edited by Denis Diderot in the 18th century, was a cornerstone of the Enlightenment, promoting reason and knowledge.
- Modern encyclopedias often adapt to digital formats, allowing for more interactive and updated information accessible globally.
Science
- In the scientific community, encyclopedic references are crucial for providing comprehensive overviews of complex topics.
- Encyclopedic entries often include summaries of current research, historical context, and future directions in specific fields.
- The rise of open-access encyclopedias has democratized knowledge, allowing more people to contribute and access a broad range of information.
Pop Culture
- In pop culture, encyclopedic knowledge is often admired in game shows and trivia contests, showcasing individuals with extensive memory.
- Fictional characters with encyclopedic knowledge are frequently portrayed as wise mentors, reflecting a cultural reverence for broad learning.
- The internet has led to the creation of 'wikis', which are modern, collaborative encyclopedic platforms for sharing knowledge on virtually any topic.
Psychology
- Research in cognitive psychology suggests that having encyclopedic knowledge can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Individuals with encycolpedic knowledge often display better memory retention and recall due to the interconnectedness of information.
- The phenomenon of 'knowledge gaps' highlights how different types of encyclopedic knowledge can influence personal and social development.
Origin of 'encyclopedic'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'enkuklios' meaning 'circular' or 'general' and 'paideia' meaning 'education'.
- The term originally reflected a comprehensive approach to learning in ancient Greece, where knowledge was seen as a circle of interrelated subjects.
- It was first used in the 16th century, but the concept of summarizing knowledge goes back much further in history.
The word 'encyclopedic' derives from the term 'encyclopaedia', which comes from the Greek 'enkuklios paideia', meaning 'cyclical education' or 'general education'. It reflects the idea of acquiring a broad and complete understanding of various subjects, akin to the idea of a well-rounded education. The term began to gain prominence during the Renaissance when scholars sought to gather and compile knowledge from multiple fields into comprehensive works. The first encyclopedias created were intended as educational tools that provided a synopsis of scholarly knowledge in a time when information was less accessible. Over the centuries, the meaning has evolved, and today, 'encyclopedic' is used to describe anything that is exhaustive and thorough in its coverage and accuracy.