Best Dictionaries for Shakespearean Vocabulary

    Below are quick introductions to some great vocabulary resources to peruse when you come across an unfamiliar word in one of Shakespeare's plays or poems. This dictionary guide also includes links, availability, and pricing information.

    If you have a favorite dictionary to use for Shakespeare that does not appear on this list, leave a comment down below and tell us about it!

1) The Oxford English Dictionary

Perks: The Oxford English Dictionary is one of the most complete dictionaries of the English language, and will likely include modern and archaic definitions of Shakespeare's words. The Oxford English Dictionary also includes etymology and instances of notable use, so sometimes that word will be defined in context for you. 

Best Use: A great choice for the first dictionary you grab when you need to define an unfamiliar word.

Availability: Widely available for print (sold on Amazon in hardcover and paperback). Secure official website ( https://www.oed.com ) includes information about subscription and offers Log In for online access.

Drawbacks: A subscription to the Oxford English Dictionary online and purchase of a print version are both considerable investments, whereas some of the other dictionaries in this guide are free.

Pricing: A monthly subscription to the OED Online is 29.95 USD/month (equivalent to 23.46 Pounds sterling, 25.79 Euros, or 3176.05 Japanese yen). For other currency conversions, use an online currency converter such as this one. Also choose the How to Subscribe? dropdown of the OED website Help page for more information on subscription plans, which differ based on geographical location.

2) Shakespeare Lexicon and Quotation Dictionary by Alexander Schmidt

Perks: The Shakespeare Lexicon and Quotation Dictionary defines every word ever used in Shakespeare, in context. The words are organized alphabetically. Within definitions are listed all specific instances of use of that word in context, with indications of the play, act, scene, and surrounding text. 

Best Use: The Shakespeare Lexicon and Quotation Dictionary does define every word used in Shakespeare; however, looking up words can be a long process. It is often easier and faster to use a more general dictionary, such as the OED, for words integrated into common English.

Availability: The Shakespeare Lexicon and Quotation Dictionary is available in print, but not online. It is sold in two volumes, A-M and N-Z, and both volumes can be purchased through Amazon (A-M and N-Z), for a Kindle, or from a variety of online bookstores for used books.

Drawbacks: Unfortunately, these two volumes of the Lexicon are also a financial investment.

Pricing: The two volumes of the Lexicon sell new for around 35.92 USD, 28.15 Pounds sterling, 30.94 Euros, or 3802.02 Japanese yen. Again, here is a link to a free, online currency converter.

3) Shakespeare's Words Glossary by David and Ben Crystal

Perks: Shakespeare's Words Glossary defines words used in Shakespeare that are no longer used in modern English, but not words that have the same definitions in modern English. In addition, this is the only dictionary specialized to Shakespeare, and the only free dictionary on this list!

Best Use: Shakespeare's Words Glossary should be used when you are absolutely sure that the word is archaic, or when the search in another dictionary does not provide a meaning that makes sense in context.

Availability: Shakespeare's Words Glossary is available online at this site.

Drawbacks: It is often hard to distinguish which definitions are exclusively Shakespearean, so this should not be the first dictionary you reach for when you spot an unfamiliar word.

Pricing: Free!