webster's: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal (when capitalized and referring to the specific brand), Informal (when used generically)
Quick answer
What does “webster's” mean?
A reference to a dictionary or reference book published by Merriam-Webster, a major American dictionary publisher. Often used as a metonym for a dictionary or an authoritative word reference.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A reference to a dictionary or reference book published by Merriam-Webster, a major American dictionary publisher. Often used as a metonym for a dictionary or an authoritative word reference.
Can be used colloquially or in brand names to suggest comprehensiveness or authority in defining terms, not limited to language (e.g., 'The Webster's of gardening').
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the US, 'Webster's' is a well-known, genericized trademark for dictionaries. In the UK, while recognized, it is less dominant; 'Oxford' or 'Collins' are more common generic references for dictionaries.
Connotations
US: Strong connotations of standard American English authority. UK: Recognized as an American reference source, sometimes viewed as a source for Americanisms.
Frequency
Much more frequent in American English. Rare as a generic term in British English.
Grammar
How to Use “webster's” in a Sentence
[Subject] consults Webster's for [definition][Author] uses Webster's as [source]According to Webster's, [statement]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “webster's” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He Webster's-ed the spelling to be sure.
- I need to webster that obscure term.
American English
- She Webster's-ed the pronunciation.
- Let me webster the definition quickly.
adverb
British English
- The term was defined Webster's-ly, with full etymology.
- He spoke Webster's-ly, quoting definitions.
American English
- She answered Webster's-ly, citing the dictionary.
- The style guide writes it Webster's-ly.
adjective
British English
- It's the Webster's definition, not the colloquial one.
- He gave a very Webster's-style explanation.
American English
- That's the Webster's approved spelling.
- Her knowledge was almost Webster's-like in precision.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in publishing or editorial contexts ('We need to check the Webster's entry for that term').
Academic
Used in citations or to establish a standard definition ('As defined in Webster's...'). More common in humanities than sciences.
Everyday
Used generically for any dictionary ('I'll check the webster's for that spelling').
Technical
In lexicography, refers specifically to publications by Merriam-Webster Inc.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “webster's”
Strong
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “webster's”
- Using 'Webster' without the possessive 's' when referring to the dictionary brand (incorrect: 'Look in Webster'; correct: 'Look in Webster's').
- Capitalizing when using it generically in informal contexts is unnecessary.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'Merriam-Webster' is the company name, and 'Webster's' is the trademark used for many of their dictionary publications (e.g., Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary).
Yes, but be specific. It is better to cite the full title (e.g., 'Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 11th edition') rather than just 'Webster's' for formal referencing.
It is a possessive form, originally short for 'Webster's Dictionary', named after the original lexicographer Noah Webster. The apostrophe-s has been retained as part of the brand name.
They recognize it as an American dictionary brand, but are far more likely to refer generically to 'the dictionary', 'the Oxford', or 'the Collins'.
A reference to a dictionary or reference book published by Merriam-Webster, a major American dictionary publisher. Often used as a metonym for a dictionary or an authoritative word reference.
Webster's is usually formal (when capitalized and referring to the specific brand), informal (when used generically) in register.
Webster's: in British English it is pronounced /ˈwɛbstəz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈwɛbstɚz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not in Webster's (meaning: unofficial, not recognized by authority)”
- “A living Webster's (a person with an extensive vocabulary)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a spider's WEB capturing words. Webster's WEB of words.
Conceptual Metaphor
AUTHORITY IS A DEFINITIVE SOURCE (Webster's as the 'court of appeal' for word meanings).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is 'Webster's' most commonly used as a generic term for dictionary?