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UoRM Psychology: Dictionaries & encyclopedias

A guide to finding information in psychology. Includes links to key resources and sources of help.

Why use dictionaries and encyclopedias?

Use dictionaries :

  • To define a word: A dictionary is the most reliable tool for finding the precise meaning of a word you don't know.
  • To check spelling: It helps you confirm the correct spelling of a word, which is essential for clear writing.
  • To improve vocabulary: By exploring synonyms, antonyms, and related words, a dictionary can help you expand your vocabulary and express yourself more effectively.

Use encyclopedias :

  • for summaries
  • for lists of further reading
  • when starting a project

Some useful titles are listed below. 
You can also search in the boxes below.

Useful reference works: selected titles

Search Summon for definitions and explanations

Find definitions and summaries from a wide range of online dictionaries and encyclopedias by searching the Summon discovery service using the box below.


Search Credo Reference

Use Credo Reference to search across multiple dictionaries and reference works.

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Search Oxford Reference

Use Oxford Reference to search across multiple dictionaries and reference titles, including bilingual dictionaries of French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Latin. You might need to log-in to view your search results.

Search Oxford Reference Online

Search the Oxford English Dictionary (OED)

Use the OED to find definitions of words.

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