Skip to content
← All Citation Guides

How to Cite a Dictionary Entry in BibTeX (standard)

Learn how to cite a dictionary definition or entry in BibTeX format (standard). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

BibTeX Reference List Format

Here is the standard BibTeX format for citing a dictionary entry in your reference list:

BibTeX Example for a Dictionary Entry

A complete BibTeX reference for a dictionary entry, formatted by the official BibTeX CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:

@misc{2023Citation, note = {[Online; accessed 2026-01-10]}, edition = {4}, year = {2023}, publisher = {Compendium Press}, title = {Citation, n.}, url = {https://www.example.org/dictionary/citation}, }

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your dictionary entry.
  2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the BibTeX (standard) template shown above.
  3. Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
  4. Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
  5. Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match BibTeX requirements.

Generate This Citation Automatically

Skip the manual formatting. Paste a DOI, URL, or ISBN into CitationEasy and get a perfectly formatted BibTeX citation in seconds.

Cite in BibTeX Now →

Cite a Dictionary Entry in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in BibTeX

More Resources