How to Find a Word by the Definition

It's easy to find the definition of a word: Just look in the dictionary. But what if you have the definition but can't think of the word? Everyone has had one of those times when a word is on the tip of your tongue but you just can't think of it. When this happens, try using an online reverse dictionary. Reverse dictionaries let you enter a word or phrase that describes your mystery word, then they produce a list of results sorted by relevance to the phrase you entered.

Instructions

1

Visit OneLook's free online reverse dictionary (see link below). Here, you will be able to enter a phrase or single word describing the word you are trying to find.

2

Scroll down the page and read through the instructions and guidelines. Because a simple search can produce hundreds, even thousands, of results, OneLook offers tips for refining and narrowing your search.

3

Enter a word or phrase describing the elusive word in the box at the top of the page marked "Describe concept here." Click "Find words."