Oxford English Dictionary-comprehensive English dictionary
AI-powered English language resource.
Define 'serendipity' in English and Chinese.
Explain the word 'harmony' with examples.
What does 'innovation' mean in English and Chinese?
Give the meaning and usage of 'sustainability'.
Related Tools
Load More
My English Dictionary
AI English Teacher designed to help you learn and understand English words and phrases comprehensively.
Mr English (for English Speakers) 📓
Your guide to make learning English words easy & memorable.
Old English Translator
Translate to or from Old English
Oxford English: Grammar Checker, Text Generator
Check the grammar and spelling of your text with English quality score 👍👎. Generate a text to your topic or alternative wording for your text. Suitable for casual and business purposes.
最強の英語辞典（英↔︎日）
英語のプロ講師監修による、最強のオンライン辞書スタイルGPTです。英単語、または日本語を入力すると、リスト形式で単語の意味、関連するイラスト、例文、語源、類義語、発音、コロケーション、豆知識など、あなたが欲しい情報を全て表示します。
Study English Vocabulary | Oxford
Helps learn English vocabulary with definitions, examples, and quizzes.
20.0 / 5 (200 votes)
Introduction to Oxford English Dictionary
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is the authoritative guide to the English language, offering comprehensive descriptions of words, their meanings, pronunciations, and historical usage. Designed to document the evolution of the English language over time, the OED includes entries for over 600,000 words, with detailed etymologies and usage examples drawn from a wide range of sources. It serves as a vital resource for scholars, writers, and anyone with a deep interest in the English language. For example, the entry for the word 'computer' includes its first known use in the early 17th century to describe a person who performs calculations, as well as its modern usage to describe electronic devices.
Main Functions of the Oxford English Dictionary
Word Definitions and Pronunciations
ExampleThe OED provides precise definitions and phonetic transcriptions of words. For instance, the word 'serendipity' is defined as 'the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way.'
ScenarioA student writing a paper on literary themes can use the OED to ensure accurate usage and pronunciation of complex vocabulary.
Etymologies and Word Histories
ExampleEach word entry includes detailed etymological information tracing the word's origin and evolution. For example, the word 'robot' is derived from the Czech word 'robota,' meaning 'forced labor.'
ScenarioA linguist researching the development of modern English can rely on the OED to understand how specific words have changed over centuries.
Historical Usage Examples
ExampleThe OED provides quotations from a wide array of literary and non-literary sources to illustrate how words have been used over time. For example, Shakespeare's use of the word 'bedazzled' in 'The Taming of the Shrew' is cited.
ScenarioAn author looking for historically accurate language for a historical novel can use the OED to find authentic word usages from different time periods.
Ideal Users of Oxford English Dictionary Services
Academics and Researchers
Academics and researchers in fields such as linguistics, literature, and history benefit greatly from the OED's comprehensive entries and historical depth. It provides authoritative references that support scholarly work and deepen understanding of language development.
Writers and Journalists
Writers and journalists use the OED to ensure precise language use and to find inspiration from historical word usages. The detailed definitions and usage examples help them craft more engaging and accurate prose.
Guidelines for Using Oxford English Dictionary
1
Visit aichatonline.org for a free trial without login, also no need for ChatGPT Plus.
2
Search for the word you need to look up using the search bar. You can use keywords, phrases, or full sentences to find definitions.
3
Review the word’s pronunciation, meaning, and usage examples. Pay attention to any variations in American and British English.
4
Explore related words and phrases to expand your understanding and vocabulary. The dictionary often links to synonyms, antonyms, and related concepts.
5
Utilize additional features such as historical usage, etymology, and word trends to gain deeper insights into the English language.
Try other advanced and practical GPTs
NoBS
AI-Powered Answers, No Fluff
Motivational Letter Expert
AI-Powered Motivational Letter Crafting
동기부여 GPT | Motivational Mentor
AI-based guidance inspired by Stoicism.
Reescribe
Effortlessly rephrase and refine your text with AI
Understanding Financial Markets and Economics
AI-powered insights for financial and economic understanding.
Redactor Actas
AI-powered tool for streamlined meeting documentation
Study English Vocabulary | Oxford
Enhance your vocabulary with AI-powered insights.
AI Sysadmin and Web Dev
AI-powered assistance for sysadmins and web developers.
SysAdmin Helper
AI-powered assistance for sysadmins.
SysAdmin Helper
AI-powered support for sysadmins
Ciscoスイッチコマンドエキスパート
AI-powered Cisco switch command expert.
Psico-Espejo
AI-driven mental health and relationship insights
- Academic Writing
- Language Learning
- Professional Use
- Everyday Use
- Literary Research
Common Questions about Oxford English Dictionary
What is the Oxford English Dictionary?
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is a comprehensive and authoritative resource on the English language, providing detailed definitions, etymologies, and usage examples of words from across the English-speaking world.
How often is the OED updated?
The OED is continuously updated, with new words and senses added quarterly. This ensures that it reflects current usage and evolving language trends.
Can I use the OED for academic writing?
Yes, the OED is an invaluable tool for academic writing. It provides precise definitions, historical context, and examples that can enhance the quality and accuracy of your work.
Does the OED include slang and regional dialects?
Yes, the OED includes a vast range of slang, colloquial expressions, and regional dialects, offering a comprehensive view of the language as it is used in various contexts.
Is the OED accessible to non-native English speakers?
Absolutely. The OED provides clear definitions, pronunciation guides, and examples that make it a useful resource for non-native speakers looking to improve their English proficiency.