Webster's Dictionary - Not just for pressing flowers

When searching for genealogical information, you will come across terms and uses of words that don't make sense. Having access to an out-of-print, unabridged dictionary can be a life saver in these situations. In an older, comprehensive dictionary you will find definitions of words as they were used in earlier eras. You won't run the risk of misinterpreting the source, which might cause you to make incorrect assumptions about your ancestors' lives, lead you down the wrong road in your search, or maybe even stop you in your tracks.

The Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language, 2nd edition, is just such a resource to turn to. It contains over 550,000 definitions, as well as many appendices that provide excellent information on abbreviations, symbols, and geographic terms. The first printing of this edition was in 1934, with subsequent reprintings. Webster's is highly regarded for accuracy and comprehensiveness, making this dictionary a valuable reference tool for genealogy research.


Neilson, W. A. et al. (Ed.). (1959). Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language (2nd ed., unabridged). Springfield, MA: G & C Merriam Company.