encyclopedia

noun

en·​cy·​clo·​pe·​dia in-ˌsī-klə-ˈpē-dē-ə How to pronounce encyclopedia (audio)
Synonyms of encyclopedianext
: a work that contains information on all branches of knowledge or treats comprehensively a particular branch of knowledge usually in articles arranged alphabetically often by subject

Examples of encyclopedia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The five pillars establish Wikipedia as a free online encyclopedia, with articles that are accurate and cite reliable sources, and editors – called Wikipedians – who avoid bias and treat one another with respect. —Bridget Retzloff, The Conversation, 20 Mar. 2023 At times, listening to him is like reading the world’s most eclectic encyclopedia. —Michal Lev-Ram, Fortune, 25 July 2024 It's become like an encyclopedia for what the Heritage Foundation in that sector of Republicans want. —Leah Feiger, WIRED, 11 Sep. 2024 Endless dry wit and an encyclopedia of knowledge, Eric Gilliland is unforgettable. —Shania Russell, EW.com, 3 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for encyclopedia 

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin encyclopaedia course of general education, from Greek enkyklios + paideia education, child rearing, from paid-, pais child — more at few

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of encyclopedia was in 1644

Dictionary Entries Near encyclopedia

encyclopaedia

encyclopedia

encyclopediast

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Encyclopedia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encyclopedia. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

encyclopedia

noun
en·​cy·​clo·​pe·​dia
variants also encyclopaedia
in-ˌsī-klə-ˈpēd-ē-ə
: a work that contains information on all subjects or one that covers a certain subject thoroughly usually with articles arranged alphabetically
Etymology

from Latin encyclopedia "course of general education," from Greek enkyklios "general, all-around," literally, "circular" and Greek paideia "education, child rearing"

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