How to Cite a Dictionary Entry in Chicago (17th edition)
Learn how to cite a dictionary definition or entry in Chicago format (17th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
Chicago Bibliography Format
Here is the standard Chicago format for citing a dictionary entry in your bibliography:
"Word." Dictionary Name. Publisher, Year. https://url.
Chicago Example for a Dictionary Entry
A complete Chicago reference for a dictionary entry, formatted by the official Chicago CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
Compendium English Dictionary. 2023. “Citation, n.” 4th ed. Compendium Press. https://www.example.org/dictionary/citation.
Matching in-text citation: (Compendium English Dictionary 2023, “Citation, n.”)
Chicago In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(Publisher n.d.)
Narrative
Publisher (n.d.) defines...
Key Chicago Formatting Rules
- Put the defined term in quotation marks.
- Italicize the dictionary title.
- Include publisher, year, and URL for online sources.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your dictionary entry.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the Chicago (17th edition) template shown above.
- Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
- Add to your bibliography: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match Chicago requirements.
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