The front matter generally contains a preface explaining how the dictionary is set up and guides for pronunciation and abbreviations. The alphabetical listing is the largest section of every dictionary.
Entries tell how a word is spelled, pronounced, and used.
Understanding a Dictionary Entry Dictionary entries typically include all or most of the following items. The entry word, which appears in boldface at the beginning of the entry, gives the spelling of the word and any variant spellings. Pronunciation A guide to the pronunciation of the word appears in parentheses or between slashes after the main entry. Dictionaries use symbols to represent sounds, and an explanation of these symbols usually appears at the bottom of each page or across the bottom of facing pages throughout the alphabetical listing. When the plural form is regular, it is not shown.