If you're using the High School library, you will have access to Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary and Thesaurus. If you are using the Middle School or Elementary School library, you will have access to Merriam-Webster's Student Dictionary and Thesaurus.
To look up words:
Double-click a word in an encyclopedia or magazine article
-OR-
Return to the library home page, enter a word or words in the search box, select the dictionary and thesaurus button, and click Go.
The dictionary results appear, and you see one or more entries. If several close matches are found, choose one from the list and click Go. If no entries were found, read the tips below.
To find alternate words in the Thesaurus:
1. Look up a word in the Dictionary. Click the Thesaurus button to switch to the thesaurus entry for the word.
2. If several close matches are found, choose one from the list and click Go. If no entries were found, read the tips below.
NOTE: After you've switched from the dictionary to the thesaurus, you can look up synonyms and antonyms for other words. Simply enter a word in the thesaurus search box and click Go.
Search for an Entry
The dictionary and thesaurus search only for entry words, not the other text in the definitions. Use a keyword or phrase that you would expect to find in a print dictionary or thesaurus. This search always tries to find an exact match to your search words.
Wildcards for Spelling
If you don't know how to spell a word, type a fragment followed by the asterisk(*). For example, type tract* to find the spelling for "tractable." Type *ism for a list of all words ending with those letters.
Uppercase or Lowercase?
The dictionary and thesaurus usually ignore case. Use either upper- or lowercase typing.
Singular or plural?
Dictionary and thesaurus entries are usually singular. If you type in the plural form of a word, for example dogs, the search will find "dog." To ensure the best results, it is preferable to type a singular word.
Punctuation
Use hyphens for hyphenated words (all-star). Other punctuation marks are not valid in a dictionary or thesaurus search.