Dictionaries & Encyclopedias
Getting Reference
Reference works such as dictionaries and encyclopedias provide background information. These resources are useful when you:
- Want to quickly learn about a topic.
- Are having trouble selecting a topic for an assignment.
- Don’t know what search terms to use.
- Need to find facts and figures.
Virtual Reference
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is widely regarded as the accepted authority on the English language.
Use this widget to search seven collections of reference books.
Suggested Dictionaries
The following is a sample from our reference collection.
A Dictionary of Ecology, Evolution and Systematics by Call Number: Ref. 570.3 L638d2ISBN: 9780521591393Publication Date:The dynamic nature of science and scientific progress has required a completely revised, updated, and expanded version of this hugely successful book, which remains the most wide-ranging and comprehensive dictionary for the study of natural history in its broadest sense. There are over 11,000 entries, providing a working dictionary for students, teachers, researchers, and others having an interest within the broad arena of biodiversity studies.
A Dictionary of Zoology by Call Number: eBookISBN: 9780192800763Publication Date:This dictionary is a comprehensive and up-to-date reference work on all aspects of the study of animals. Now fully revised for this new edition, with over 5,000 entries, it is ideal for students and will be invaluable to amateur naturalists and all those with an interest in the subject.
Helm Dictionary of Scientific Bird Names by Call Number: eBookISBN: 9781408133262Publication Date:This extraordinary work of reference lists the generic and specific name for almost every species of bird in the world and gives its meaning and derivation. In the case of eponyms, brief biographical details are provided for each of the personalities commemorated in the scientific names.
Oxford Dictionary of Ecology by Call Number: eBookISBN: 9780585110400Publication Date:This dictionary provides authoritative and wide-ranging coverage of ecology and the environmental sciences. Now thoroughly updated for this new edition, it will be invaluable to students, professionals, and anyone with an interest in the natural world and our environment.
Suggested Encyclopedias
The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Darwin and Evolutionary Thought by Call Number: eBookISBN: 9781107313811Publication Date:This volume is a comprehensive reference work on the life, labors, and influence of the great evolutionist Charles Darwin. With more than sixty essays written by an international group representing the leading scholars in the field, this is the definitive work on Darwin.
Encyclopedia of Insects by Call Number: eBookISBN: 9780080920900Publication Date:Covering all aspects of insect anatomy, physiology, evolution, behavior, reproduction, ecology, and disease, as well as issues of exploitation, conservation, and management, this book sets the standard in entomology.
Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals by Call Number: eBookISBN: 9780080919935Publication Date:This thorough revision of the classic Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals brings this authoritative book right up-to-date. Articles describe every species in detail, based on the very latest taxonomy, and a host of biological, ecological, and sociological aspects relating to marine mammals.
Encyclopedia of Tidepools and Rocky Shores by Call Number: eBookISBN: 9780520933750Publication Date:This comprehensive encyclopedia is an authoritative, one-stop reference for everyone interested in the biology and ecology of this fascinating and uniquely accessible environment. Conveniently arranged alphabetically, nearly 200 wide-ranging entries written in clear language by scientists from around the world provide a state-of-the-art picture of tidepools and rocky shore science.
Magill’s Encyclopedia of Science: Animal Life by Call Number: eBookISBN: 9781587652578Publication Date:Ideal for high school, undergraduate, and general readers, this four-volume set offers accessible, easy-to-understand scientific information. The 385 entries focus on nonhumans from the animal kingdom-from insects to reptiles to mammals. Entries on species discuss notable anatomy and physiology, habitat, behavior, and reproduction and include a sidebar listing classification, geographical location, life span, and special anatomy.
