Linguistics Lexicography

What is the structure of a standard dictionary?

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What is the structure of a standard dictionary?

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Wrote answer · 3/9/2024
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The structure of a standard dictionary entry typically includes several key components. While variations exist, especially between different dictionaries or for specific types of words, the following elements are commonly found:

  1. Entry Word (Headword):
    • This is the word being defined, usually in bold type for easy identification.
  2. Pronunciation:
    • A phonetic transcription of how the word is pronounced, using symbols from the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) or a simplified respelling system.
  3. Part of Speech:
    • Indicates the grammatical category of the word (e.g., noun, verb, adjective, adverb).
  4. Inflections:
    • Shows the different forms of the word, such as plural forms for nouns or verb conjugations.
  5. Etymology:
    • The origin and historical development of the word, tracing its roots and changes in meaning over time.
  6. Definition(s):
    • The explanation of the word's meaning, often with multiple definitions to cover different senses or usages. Definitions are typically numbered.
  7. Usage Examples:
    • Sentences or phrases illustrating how the word is used in context, helping to clarify its meaning.
  8. Synonyms and Antonyms:
    • Words with similar (synonyms) or opposite (antonyms) meanings, providing additional context and related vocabulary.
  9. Idioms and Phrases:
    • Common expressions or phrases in which the word is used with a specific meaning.
  10. Related Words:
    • Other words related to the entry word, such as derivatives or words with similar meanings in a specific context.

For example, a dictionary entry for the word "run" might include:

  • Run (entry word)
  • /rʌn/ (pronunciation)
  • Verb (part of speech)
  • ran, running (inflections)
  • (etymology - tracing its origins)
  • 1. To move at a speed faster than a walk (definition)
  • "I run every morning." (usage example)
  • Synonyms: sprint, dash (synonyms)
  • "run a business" (idiom)
Wrote answer · 3/14/2025
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