Chambers Dictionary 4+

These WordWeb dictionaries are basically an exceptional replacement for the built-indictionaries in MacOS. The content is very well organanized, and the interface is up-to-date with the latest improvements in MacOS. As far as content, it does not get any better than Oxford and Chambers. Of course it would be amaziang to have the entire Oxford English Dictionary, but that license is impossible to obtain and would cost $1,000. But for everyday use this is a fantastic set of products. If you have not looked, check out the other offerings by this developer. I have used these WordWeb softwares for 9 years (since 2009) before they were on the App Store. They are truly excellent for writers, academics, and other researchers. Fast, efficient with good content. (I am also putting this review on the other WordWeb App Store products I own, because they really are part of an integrated product.)

Chambers is a British dictionary that gives each word multiple, very short, and occasionally humorous definitions. It’s also the official dictionary for most UK (cryptic) crosswords.

The definitions are succinct and enlightening. It also defines many words that aren’t in the macOS Dictionary app. Despite the wealth of definitions, each entry is instantly understandable. It’s simply the best dictionary presentation I’ve ever seen.

The app surrounding this content is also very nice. It’s based on the WordWeb app (which has more traditional, verbose, dictionary content). It has the ability to solve anagrams and find words with missing letters—you use a question mark in place of the letters you don’t know. This makes it useful for solving cryptic crosswords.

I use the Chambers Dictionary and companion Thesaurus app on a regular basis. The definitions are concise yet provide the full range of multiple meanings. I particulary like being able to browse the previous and next set of entries in the sidebar, which is great when you want to quickly glance at similar words. Likewise with the companion Thesaurus app installed, you can quickly toggle between the dictionary and thesaurus with a single-click. Great value for the money. It’s the only dictionary I use.