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How to Cite a Dictionary Entry in Bluebook (21st edition)

Learn how to cite a dictionary definition or entry in Bluebook format (21st edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

Bluebook Bibliography Format

Here is the standard Bluebook format for citing a dictionary entry in your bibliography:

Follow the standard Bluebook template for this source type.

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 Bluebook (21st 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 Bluebook requirements.

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Cite a Dictionary Entry in Other Styles

Dictionary Entry in APADictionary Entry in MLADictionary Entry in ChicagoDictionary Entry in HarvardDictionary Entry in VancouverDictionary Entry in IEEEDictionary Entry in AMADictionary Entry in TurabianDictionary Entry in CSEDictionary Entry in BibTeXDictionary Entry in NatureDictionary Entry in ACSDictionary Entry in OSCOLADictionary Entry in AGLCDictionary Entry in ASADictionary Entry in APSADictionary Entry in AAADictionary Entry in NLMDictionary Entry in ACMDictionary Entry in APSDictionary Entry in AIPDictionary Entry in CellDictionary Entry in ScienceDictionary Entry in PLOSDictionary Entry in BMJDictionary Entry in LancetDictionary Entry in JAMADictionary Entry in Elsevier HarvardDictionary Entry in Springer

Cite Other Sources in Bluebook

Website in BluebookBook in BluebookJournal Article in BluebookYouTube Video in BluebookPodcast in BluebookNewspaper Article in BluebookPDF in BluebookInterview in BluebookSocial Media Post in BluebookGovernment Document in BluebookDissertation or Thesis in BluebookConference Paper in BluebookLecture or PowerPoint in BluebookImage or Photograph in BluebookMovie or Film in BluebookTV Show in BluebookSong or Music in BluebookCourt Case in BluebookPatent in BluebookEncyclopedia Entry in BluebookDataset in BluebookSoftware or App in BluebookPress Release in BluebookReport in Bluebook

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