Product Description

The first visual dictionary to incorporate dictionary-scale definitions.

- More than 20,000 clear and concise terms

- 6,000 full-colour, highly detailed illustrations

- 17 chapters outlining subjects from astronomy to sports

- Ideal for teachers, parents, translators, and students

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #234150 in Books
• Brand: Merriam-Webster
• Published on:
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: 10.04" h x 2.20" w x 7.87" l, 5.97 pounds
• Binding: Hardcover
• 952 pages

From Booklist
Merriam-Webster's version of a visual dictionary comes from the same team responsible for the Firefly Visual Dictionary (2000) and looks almost identical to that earlier work. The big change here is that "real dictionary definitions" have been added, so that when we are shown a labeled picture of an arcade or a bobsled, we can read a definition as well. Some 6,000 pieces of artwork and 20,000 terms are grouped under 17 general categories. DK's Visual Dictionary groups 30,000 terms under 14 headings and uses primarily photographs (6,000 of them) plus 1,000 illustrations. The DK dictionary has a more sumptuous look, but some of the entries, such as those for the densely labeled "Competition Motorcycles" and "A Ship of the Line," can be confusing. If a library has to choose, it's the difference between stilettos and sensible shoes. DK is sexier, but Merriam-Webster, with its clear illustrations and added definitions, is probably a better educational tool. Susan Awe
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

About the Author
Merriam-Webster Inc. acquired the rights to revise and publish Noah Webster's dictionaries in 1843. Since then, Merriam-Webster has maintained an ongoing commitment to innovation, scholarship, and love of language. Today, the company continues as the leader in language reference, publishing a diverse array of print and electronic products, including the best-selling Merriam-Webster's Collegiate® Dictionary, Eleventh Edition. The company also publishes a full line of student references, bilingual dictionaries, and titles for English Language Learning.

Customer Reviews

Most helpful customer reviews

30 of 31 people found the following review helpful.
Wonderful Visual Resource
By SPD Therapist
Our son found this dictionary and purchased it himself. As a deaf student, he has poured over the pages with delight. It is a wonderful reference for those with language problems, learning disabilities, and the curious in general. We were so impressed we donated 25 copies to our son's school for classroom use. The students and teachers have loved it!

22 of 25 people found the following review helpful.
Visual dictionary- not so visual
By S. Dixit
Good lay out and high quality paper. Pictures are fine. But more like a small encyclopedia than a dictionary. Major drawback is small font letters, not easy to read.Bit disappointed, could have been better.

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful.
Good resource
By D. Liu
Merriam-Webster Visual Dictionary is an excellent reference book for kids and people whose native language is not English.