Encyclopedical

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

  1. Relating to a comprehensive summary of knowledge across various fields | Characterizing a work that provides extensive information on numerous subjects | Pertaining to a style that seeks to cover an entire range of human knowledge
  2. Characterized by an all-encompassing scope of information that spans multiple disciplines
  3. Describing a manner of presenting information that seeks to include a vast array of topics and subjects

Etymology: The term "encyclopedical" emerges from the broader concept of an "encyclopedia," which traces its origins back to the Greek "enkuklios paideia," meaning "general education" or "circular education." The roots of this phrase, "enkuklios" translates to "circular" or "general," while "paideia" means "education" or "rearing of children." This reflects the ambition of early encyclopedias to provide a comprehensive overview of knowledge, a goal that has evolved but remains central to the term's meaning. The adjective "encyclopedical" began to take shape in the English language in the late 19th century, around the 1860s. It was used to describe works or attributes that possess a wide-ranging, comprehensive quality akin to that of an encyclopedia. The word captures the essence of a vast repository of knowledge, emphasizing not just the breadth of information but also its systematic organization—an essential characteristic of encyclopedic works. As the concept of encyclopedias developed through time, particularly with the rise of the Encyclopedia Britannica and other notable compilations of knowledge, the meaning of "encyclopedical" expanded to encompass any endeavor that seeks to cover a vast array of subjects or disciplines. A person's encyclopedical knowledge, for instance, suggests not merely a familiarity with many topics but an extensive, interconnected understanding of diverse fields. The transition from the Greek roots to the modern English usage illustrates a journey from a focus on educational philosophy to practical application in literature and knowledge dissemination. This evolution highlights how the term has come to embody the ideal of a well-rounded intellect, one that aspires to grasp the interconnected nature of human knowledge and experience.

Synonyms: comprehensive, exhaustive