Using the Dictionary and Thesaurus

The online library catalog offers a dictionary and thesaurus that you can use to help with searching.

This unit covers the following topics:

• "Look up a word in the online dictionary"
• "Find related words in the thesaurus"

Look up a word in the online dictionary

The online dictionary is a convenient way to check your search words. If you are not sure how to spell a word, the dictionary can also offer ideas based on the sound or origins of the word. Follow these steps to look up a word in the online dictionary.

1. Select Search on the menu bar, and select Dictionary from the Search submenu.

   The dictionary search bar appears.

2. Type a word in the Search dictionary for box, and click Go.

   The center area of the page displays the word and definition.

3. To read the definitions for other entries and suggestions, select a word in the Entries list.

   The center area of the page displays the definition for the word.

4. To quit using the dictionary, select another menu or submenu option.

Find related words in the thesaurus

A thesaurus lists words that are related in meaning to a word you specify. For example, if a subject search does not yield the results you expect, the online thesaurus can help you find a similar word (synonym) to use as the subject. Follow these steps to use the online thesaurus.

1. Select Search on the menu bar, and select Thesaurus from the Search submenu.

   The thesaurus search bar appears.

2. Type a word in the Search thesaurus for box, and click Go.

   The thesaurus displays meanings and synonyms for the word.

3. If the Meanings list displays more than one definition, select a definition to see synonyms related to that definition.
4. Select any synonym to display possible meanings for the selected synonym.
5. To leave the thesaurus, select another menu or submenu option.