The spelling of the word "pictorial dictionary" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "pɪk" with a short "i" sound and a hard "k" at the end. The second syllable is pronounced as "ˈtɔːrɪəl" with a long "o" sound followed by a schwa sound and a stressed "r". This word refers to a dictionary that contains pictures or illustrations alongside definitions. Pictorial dictionaries are helpful for visual learners who may struggle with text-only definitions.
A pictorial dictionary is a reference book or resource that consists of a collection of visual images or illustrations alongside their corresponding labels or captions, intended to provide quick and easy access to the meanings and definitions of words. Unlike traditional dictionaries, which primarily use written descriptions to convey meanings, a pictorial dictionary predominantly employs visual representations to aid comprehension and understanding.
This type of dictionary typically covers a wide range of topics, encompassing various fields such as anatomy, biology, geography, history, art, technology, and everyday objects. Each entry in a pictorial dictionary features a clear and detailed image, often accompanied by concise explanatory text or annotations that explain the significance, function, or characteristics of the depicted item.
The primary purpose of a pictorial dictionary is to facilitate communication and assist individuals, particularly those with limited language skills, in associating words with their corresponding visuals. It can be particularly helpful for language learners, children, and individuals with reading difficulties such as dyslexia. Moreover, a pictorial dictionary can serve as a visual compendium of knowledge, allowing users to quickly reference and identify objects, concepts, or terms that may be difficult to describe or remember solely through written means.
In summary, a pictorial dictionary is an invaluable resource that employs visual imagery to convey meanings, making it a user-friendly reference tool for various purposes such as education, language acquisition, and general knowledge enhancement.
The etymology of the word "pictorial dictionary" can be broken down as follows:
1. Pictorial: The word pictorial is derived from the Latin word "pictorius", which means "of or pertaining to a painter" or "of or pertaining to pictures". It is ultimately derived from the Latin word "pictor", meaning "painter".
2. Dictionary: The word dictionary traces its roots back to the Latin word "dictionarium", which means "a collection of words and phrases". The Latin word is derived from the older Latin term "dictio", meaning "word" or "expression".
Therefore, combining these two words, the term "pictorial dictionary" refers to a collection of words and their corresponding pictorial representations or illustrations.