science dictionary
C1-C2 / Academic / Low-frequency compoundFormal, Academic, Technical
Definition
Meaning
A reference book that lists and defines terms used in scientific disciplines.
A specialized lexicon or database focusing on vocabulary, concepts, nomenclature, and methodologies from fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences. Often includes explanatory entries, diagrams, and cross-references.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
A hyponym of 'dictionary' and a meronym of scientific literature. The term implies a focus on definition and explanation rather than translation (cf. bilingual science dictionary).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference. Spelling conventions follow national norms (e.g., 'behavioural' vs. 'behavioral' in example entries).
Connotations
Identical connotations of authority, specialization, and educational utility.
Frequency
Equally common in academic and educational contexts in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Consult/Use/Refer to] + [the/a] + [adjective] + science dictionary + [for/on] + [term/topic].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It's not in the science dictionary. (i.e., it's too new, obscure, or not officially recognized)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare, except in publishing (e.g., 'We are launching a new digital science dictionary.')
Academic
Primary context. Used by students, researchers, and educators to clarify terminology.
Everyday
Low frequency, typically in contexts of homework help or personal interest in science.
Technical
Core context. Essential for standardizing terminology in research, writing, and education.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- To science-dictionary a term is to look it up in a specialised source.
American English
- She science-dictionaried the phrase 'quantum entanglement' for her paper.
adverb
British English
- The term was defined science-dictionary precisely.
American English
- He explained it science-dictionary style, with concise clarity.
adjective
British English
- The science-dictionary entry was remarkably thorough.
American English
- He used a science-dictionary approach to compile the definitions.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I found the word in my science dictionary.
- For your homework, please look up three words in the science dictionary.
- The online science dictionary provided not only a definition but also a related diagram.
- The author's reliance on a standard science dictionary ensured terminological consistency throughout the research paper.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'SCIence Defines Ideas Entries Clearly' – SCI-DIC = Science Dictionary.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SCIENCE DICTIONARY IS A MAP OF KNOWLEDGE (it charts the territory of scientific concepts).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct calque 'научный словарь' if context implies a monolingual explanatory work; 'научный словарь' can also mean a bilingual glossary. For clarity, use 'толковый словарь научных терминов'.
- Do not confuse with 'энциклопедия' (encyclopedia), which provides broader articles, not just definitions.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect pluralisation: 'science dictionaries' (correct) not 'sciences dictionary'.
- Misplaced modifier: 'a dictionary of science' is more common than 'a science's dictionary' (incorrect).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a science dictionary?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are essentially synonymous, though 'dictionary of science' can sometimes imply a slightly broader scope.
Yes, though the term unmodified typically refers to a monolingual, explanatory work. Bilingual versions are usually specified as, e.g., 'English-Spanish Science Dictionary'.
A dictionary focuses on concise definitions of terms. An encyclopedia provides longer, article-style entries on concepts, including history, context, and applications.
No, they are published at various levels, from primary school editions with simple explanations to advanced professional volumes for researchers.