Accurately referencing definitions from dictionaries is a necessary practice in academic writing. When incorporating a dictionary’s definition into a work adhering to Modern Language Association (MLA) style, specific guidelines must be followed. A typical citation includes the dictionary title, the entry word, the publication information for the dictionary (if available), and the URL if accessed online. For instance, citing the definition of “ubiquitous” from Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary would resemble: Merriam-Webster. “Ubiquitous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, [date accessed], [URL].
Proper attribution of definitions ensures academic integrity and provides readers with the source material used in forming an argument or understanding a concept. Failing to cite a dictionary definition, even if the term seems common knowledge, can be construed as plagiarism. Furthermore, the evolution of language necessitates referencing up-to-date definitions. Different dictionaries may offer nuances in meaning, and citing the specific dictionary used allows readers to understand the precise interpretation employed within the work. Historically, dictionaries were viewed as authoritative sources for settling disputes about word usage; while that role has evolved, their importance in clarifying meaning remains significant.