How to Write a Dictionary Definition
Early dictionaries were bilingual references that listed words in one language and translated them to another. In 1604, a dictionary appeared in England that simply listed words in English and defined them by using other words. The innovative publication arranged words alphabetically instead of by topic. Daniel Webster introduced the dictionary to America in the early 1700s.
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Instructions
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Obtain a dictionary. Locate multiple examples of the word and various usages. Note different uses, meanings and applications of the word.
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Determine which part of speech the word is in a specific use. Be familiar with the various parts of speech (noun, pronoun, verb, adjective, adverb) in order to correctly identify the word's role in the language.
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3
Create several definitions for the word using colored index cards. Assign one color to each part of speech. Use the simplest, most familiar and most concise terms for each definition.
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Offer a list of synonyms and antonyms to help in defining the various shades of meaning of a single word. Use a specific colored pencil or pen to write a list of synonyms and another for antonyms.
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Include information about the etymology of the word. Research the word's origins and other languages from which it is derived. Devise an etymology for newly created words.
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Download "flashcard" software. Create flashcard sets to learn new words and expand the vocabulary. Organize the flashcards alphabetically or by part of speech (see Resources).
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Tips & Warnings
Don't use the word itself or forms of the word in the definition or to create "circular definitions."
Refer to a dictionary to learn how to show the pronunciation of a word including accents and the division of syllables. Create a master key of various vowel sounds, diphthongs and consonant blends as needed.
