MAC TREAT #156: Look it Up!

Earlier in the week, Merriam-Webster debuted an HD (iPad native) version of its previously iPhone/iPod touch only Dictionary app.

After installing the free app on my iPad and browsing its virtual pages for a few minutes, I came to the realization that the device I was using was both exponentially thinner and lighter than an traditional printed dictionary—not to mention more functional!

With the advent of the “on-board” dictionary, running to the bookshelf to look up Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis—yes, a real word—has become a thing of the past. While reaching for the nearest dictionary-equipped iOS device or launching your Mac’s included Dictionary application might seem fast, there are quicker ways to get your definition.

For example, did you know Spotlight can double as a dictionary? To quickly look up a definition or to double check your spelling—the feature I primarily use it for—enable Spotlight by pressing Command-Space. Next, start typing a word and you should see its definition populate near the top of the list.

Here, you’ll see the part of speech and the beginning of its definition based on the length of the word. If you’d like to see the full definition, simply highlight the listing and press Return. This will launch OS X’s Dictionary app with your word preselected.

Still not fast enough? Here’s a pro tip: If you tire of constantly switching between Pages and Dictionary or are fed up navigating Spotlight, try taking OS X’s “secret” dictionary for a spin. Most applications mesh with this dictionary and constantly run it in the background. To bring up a quick definition hover over a tricky word in any app and press: Control-Command-D. Voila! Instant definition!