Terminology

Terminology provides an offline lexical resource for the macOS Dictionary application, built from the WordNet semantic database. By installing the supplied “Terminology.dictionary” file into the hidden ~/Library/Dictionaries folder and enabling it in the Dictionary app’s preferences, users can look up words using the system’s native “Look up…” context menu and other Dictionary integrations. The dictionary offers the same semantic reference data as the iOS version, though it lacks the iOS app’s additional features.

The tool is intended for macOS users who need a comprehensive, free lexical reference without requiring an external application. It integrates directly with the built‑in Dictionary app, allowing seamless access alongside other installed dictionaries and supporting dictionary selection and priority ordering.

Installation consists of downloading a zip archive, extracting the dictionary file, copying it to the hidden folder, and activating it in the Dictionary preferences. The project is marked as stable and is distributed at no cost, with optional donations or purchases for related iOS versions.