Encyclopaedias

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A collection of works that provide comprehensive information on a wide range of subjects, usually organized alphabetically or thematically
2. Reference books, often in multiple volumes, containing articles on numerous topics compiled by experts in various fields of knowledge
3. A detailed resource that presents organized factual information across different disciplines, intended for educational and informational purposes

Etymology: The plural of "encyclopaedia" is simply the form you use when there is more than one such work, so the interesting history lies in the singular. The noun comes from New Latin "encyclopaedia", a coinage built from the Greek "enkyklios" (circular, general) and "paideia" (education, instruction), so it originally meant something like "general education in the whole circle of learning." Scholars writing in Latin formed it in the early modern period to name the body of knowledge a learned person was expected to master. English spellings have wavered between "encyclopaedia" and "encyclopedia." The "ae" spelling, which keeps the Greek diphthong visible, is an etymologically restored form; the "e" spelling is the earlier English one. Both remain in use, with "encyclopaedia" favoured in British English and "encyclopedia" in American usage.

Synonyms: dictionaries, compendiums, reference books