Merriam-Webster Dictionary is an online reference with regularly updated entries and revised definitions, available through its website, mobile apps, and API. The app combines dictionary and thesaurus lookup with offline access to definitions and synonyms. Voice search helps users look up a word without spelling it; vocabulary tools include quizzes, favorite words, and search history. The website also offers Word of the Day, grammar and usage guidance, wordplay, games, quizzes, and thesaurus content. Medical, Legal, and Kids dictionaries can be unlocked through an in-app purchase. For app integrations, the Dictionary API provides definitions, etymologies, audio pronunciations, synonyms, antonyms, and specialized vocabulary. Non-commercial API use is free up to 1,000 queries per day per key and limited to two reference APIs; commercial terms are arranged case by case. The app is free with ads. Listed iOS purchases include Premium Monthly for 1.79 USD per month, Remove Ads for 2.99 USD per once, All References + Remove Ads for 5.99 USD per once, and Premium Annual for 9.99 USD per year.
Who it is for
It suits visitors and English-language learners looking for dictionary, thesaurus, and vocabulary-building tools. Developers can use its API for reference and specialized vocabulary integrations, subject to the listed query and use limits.
What is good
- Offline dictionary definitions and synonyms.
- Voice search and vocabulary quizzes.
- Website includes grammar guidance, games, and wordplay.
- Free non-commercial API use up to 1,000 queries daily.
What to know first
- Free app version includes ads.
- Medical, Legal, and Kids dictionaries require in-app purchase.
- Commercial API terms require contacting Merriam-Webster.
Verdict
Merriam-Webster combines dictionary and thesaurus access with offline lookup, learning tools, and website editorial content. The app is free with ads, while specialized dictionaries and ad-free options are available through listed purchases.
Get started with Merriam-Webster Dictionary
- Visit merriam-webster.com for web reference and editorial content.
- Install the app on iOS or Android for mobile dictionary and thesaurus access.
- Use the free app, which includes ads and offline definitions and synonyms.
- Choose an iOS in-app purchase if you want premium access, ad removal, or all references.
- For API integration, use non-commercial access within its daily query limit or contact Merriam-Webster about commercial terms.
What the free plan stops at
The free app includes ads, and the Medical, Legal, and Kids dictionaries require an in-app purchase. Non-commercial API use is limited to 1,000 queries per day per key and two reference APIs.
Questions about Merriam-Webster Dictionary
Is Merriam-Webster Dictionary free?
The app has a free version with ads. Listed iOS purchases include Premium Monthly for 1.79 USD per month, Remove Ads for 2.99 USD per once, All References + Remove Ads for 5.99 USD per once, and Premium Annual for 9.99 USD per year.
Can I use the app offline?
Yes. The app provides offline access to definitions and synonyms.
Which platforms are available?
The listed platforms are web, iOS, Android, and API.
What are the Dictionary API limits?
Non-commercial use is free up to 1,000 queries per day per API key and is limited to two reference APIs. Commercial terms are arranged case by case.
Can I access specialized dictionaries?
Medical, Legal, and Kids dictionaries are available through an in-app purchase.
Who makes Merriam-Webster Dictionary?
Merriam-Webster says its company began in 1831 as G. & C. Merriam Co. and took the name Merriam-Webster, Incorporated, in 1982.
Merriam-Webster Dictionary plans and pricing
All plansCompared on online dictionaries
- Free plan
- Yes
- Audio pronunciation
- Yes
- Usage examples
- Yes
- Translation lookup
- Yes
- Offline access
- Yes
- Mobile apps
- ios_android
- Languages covered
- 1
