Everybody knows what the Wikipedia is, but the open content dictionary, Wiktionary is lesser known.
Being that I write often, I need to look up words often both for definition and spelling purposes. Usually what I will do is use Google’s define: operator. For example, if you go to Google and use the search term define:computer, you’ll get a definition of the word.
While the Google way works, it’s definitely not the best. I don’t get any audio sample for any defined word. The definition returned only covers the basics. And clicking ‘more’ sometimes brings up conflicting definitions.
Wiktionary on the other hand uses fast, descriptive pages for defined words, other important information like synonyms and antonyms are listed in plain sight and the presentation in general is very well done.
The be-all/end-all of dictionaries are Oxford and Merriam-Webster, both of which offer free basic lookups, however Oxford’s basic lookup is, well, too basic, and Merriam-Webster’s interface is a bit cluttered. Wiktionary is a clean, mean defining machine.
If you haven’t used Wiktionary or just haven’t used it in a while, give it a try. Everyone needs a dictionary from time to time and Wiktionary definitely fits the bill.
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First off, let me say that I too usually use Google’s define operator for a quick word look up when I am writing. For more in-depth information, I have used The Free Dictionary http://www.thefreedictionary.com/, which seems to have everything you say Wictionary has.
I had not even heard of Wictionary until I saw this post. However, I intend to check it out.
I have always been a fan of Wikipedia for general information but, verify the information using other sources before using.From what you have said in your post, I think it will be another valuable writing resource.
I use http://definr.com/ Very speedy.
Nice tip. Wiktionary definitely is worth a shot.
But it’s rather strange that you say that in Google define: “… I don’t get any audio sample for any defined word”. I actually do get the audio pronunciation if I click the “More>>” link. Conversely, in Wiktionary I don’t see any audio option.
That sounds good. Now the problem of finding the correct meaning is solved i think..