How to Cite Wikipedia in Chicago (17th edition)

Learn how to cite Wikipedia articles and wiki entries 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 Wikipedia in your bibliography:

Chicago Example for Wikipedia

A complete Chicago reference for Wikipedia, formatted by the official Chicago CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:

Matching in-text citation: (Wikipedia 2024, “Citation”)

Chicago In-Text Citation

Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:

Key Chicago Formatting Rules

• Chicago advises against citing Wikipedia in formal work — verify with a more authoritative source where possible.
• Cite it in a note only; it is usually left out of the bibliography.
• Use the s.v. ("sub verbo") form: Wikipedia, s.v. "Article Title."
• Give the last-modified date and the permalink URL.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your Wikipedia.
2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the Chicago (17th edition) 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 bibliography: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
5. Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match Chicago requirements.

Cite Wikipedia in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in Chicago

More Resources

• Free Citation Generator (10,834 styles)
• Free Writing Tools
• Compare Citation Styles
• All Citation Guides
• Cheat Sheets (APA, MLA, Chicago)
• Citation Glossary (et al., ibid., DOI, hanging indent)