A writer more often than not is literary, known for having their way with words. But few know that it is a skill-set that is developed over some time. So, when we think of novels, short stories, books, poetry, plays, screenplays, songs, essay, and blogs; know that the ideas/stories need to be converted to written words and sometimes even a proficient writer will fall short of words and will have trouble finding the right one to complete his work. Here is where a dictionary comes into play. There are many dictionaries available online; each offering its panache. One of the easiest to enhance your approach to writing is to keep these dictionaries handy while writing. 

Here is a list of our favorite dictionaries that you must consider the next time you pick your pen to write.

P.S. Please note that we do believe that writing is not just about articulation and fancy words and dictionaries can only be an aid to your writing.

The Best Online Dictionaries for Writers

Merriam-Webster

Merriam-Webster is one of the most respected and well-regarded dictionaries and is made up of a dictionary, thesaurus, a Spanish to English translation, and a medical dictionary as well. Being one of the oldest and most trusted dictionaries of America, it has the largest community online. It’s a place to learn new words and also get inspired for writing.

 Collins Dictionary

Collins dictionary is one of the best platforms for writers and has more than a 4.5 billion word repository! It has the best features like thesaurus, video, translator, and scrabble to enhance your grammar and fluency. It has a search engine feature with an auto-suggest which enables you to choose a word by just typing a few letters. Best of all, it also helps you with both, audio and video pronunciations. 

 Google Dictionary and Google Translate

No online dictionary list can be whole without including the Google Dictionary. Offered in a wide variety of languages including special features like voice pronunciation, definitions, example sentences, and related phrases, it has rock-solid brand recognition.

As the name suggests, Google translate is your go-to tool for your need in the translation of a word from a different language. Google has a dedicated app for it. It is one of the best ways in which a writer can establish a connection with their readers.

 Urban Dictionary

This one is rather popular and known for being the online slang term dictionary. It is quirky, funny, and let’s agree outright bizarre (sometimes). Originally, this dictionary was intended as a dictionary of slang or cultural words and phrases, which are not typically found in standard dictionaries, though now it is used to define any word, event, or phrase. The dictionary also has a voting mechanism and each definition is accepted or rejected based on the number of “Publish” or “Don’t Publish” votes it receives from volunteer editors.

 Netlingo

Netlingo explains thousands of terms that define our life on social platforms, including the largest list of chat acronyms. It is the best place to check out the meaning of LOL, FWIW, and more. Everything from internet jargon to newly released online-specific word gets updated every day.

 Rhymezone

Rhymezone started as a dictionary of rhyming words but over the years has transformed into a comprehensive dictionary for words, phrases, meanings, sentences, and spellchecks. You can find synonyms, antonyms, and even homophones. It can be customized to perform your most used functions by default. 

 Visuwords

This is a unique online dictionary that is graphical. It creates diagrams connecting words and concepts to help you to correlate. It has an exhaustive list of words and provides excellent word visualization. It is a unique way to learn and articulate.

 Source: Wikipedia, Notionpress, henryhavin, becomeshakespeare.com