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Merriam-Webster Dictionary App: Comprehensive iOS Language Reference

by Merriam-Webster, Inc.

4.8
IOSReference
Merriam-Webster's iOS app delivers authoritative dictionary and thesaurus content with offline access, voice search, and vocabulary-building tools. Ideal for students, writers, and professionals seeking reliable language reference.

Detailed Review

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary app represents the digital evolution of America's most trusted language reference resource, offering comprehensive lexical data optimized for iOS devices. As the official mobile companion to the 190-year-old dictionary publisher, the app maintains Merriam-Webster's reputation for authoritative definitions while adding modern functionality that enhances its utility for contemporary users. Core functionality includes complete offline access to the entire dictionary database, eliminating dependency on internet connectivity for word lookups. The voice search feature allows users to verbally query words without precise spelling knowledge, though some users note limitations with homophones or unclear pronunciation. Additional features include a Word of the Day system for vocabulary expansion, integrated thesaurus functionality, and educational word games that provide contextual learning through timed quizzes and definition matching exercises. The app also offers word history tracking and bookmarking capabilities for personalized vocabulary development. User experience benefits from a clean, intuitive interface that prioritizes quick access to definitions while maintaining the depth of Merriam-Webster's traditional dictionary format. The design efficiently organizes multiple definition entries, etymologies, usage examples, and pronunciation guides in a scrollable card-based layout. Real-world usage patterns show particularly strong adoption among students completing assignments, professionals drafting documents, and casual readers encountering unfamiliar terminology during mobile reading sessions. User feedback consistently praises the app's academic rigor and comprehensive content, with reviewer woodypooh (2025-08-29) noting it is 'very thorough in that it explains the origin of each word along with examples.' Multiple reviewers highlight the value of having both dictionary and thesaurus functionality in a single application, as mentioned by octaviashamar (2025-08-29). Some users express frustration with the voice recognition's limitations for poorly pronounced or spelled words, echoing Jceobyuvhdh's (2025-09-02) observation about spelling challenges. The app's primary strength lies in its authoritative content and reliable offline functionality, though voice recognition limitations present occasional usability hurdles. It serves as an essential tool for educational contexts, professional writing, and general vocabulary development, particularly valuable for users who require trustworthy definitions without constant internet access. The free version provides substantial functionality, making it accessible for most users despite some advanced features requiring premium subscription.

Key Features

  • Offline dictionary access provides complete definitions and synonyms without internet connection, essential for travelers and low-connectivity environments
  • Voice search functionality enables word lookups through spoken queries, particularly useful when spelling is uncertain
  • Word of the Day system delivers daily vocabulary building with complete definitions and usage examples
  • Integrated word games offer educational quizzes that reinforce vocabulary retention through interactive learning
  • Bookmarking system allows users to save and organize words for later review and personalized vocabulary lists
  • Cross-platform synchronization maintains user data across iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch implementations

Why Users Love It

Authoritative lexical content
Full offline functionality

Perfect for: Students, writers, and professionals requiring reliable language reference

Screenshots

Merriam-Webster Dictionary screenshot 1Merriam-Webster Dictionary screenshot 2Merriam-Webster Dictionary screenshot 3Merriam-Webster Dictionary screenshot 4

Ranking History

Track Merriam-Webster Dictionary's performance in Reference over the last 30 days

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Current Rank

#47

+1 from last week

Best Rank

#41

All-time high

Average Rank

#46

30-day average

User Reviews

Ajcnn
Oct 3, 2025

You guys are helping me learn so many new words with this app! Mariam Webster You guys are helping me learn so many new words with this app!

GG BOND 1234
Sep 19, 2025

It is much easier than bing or other applications and website I like this app It is much easier than bing or other applications and website

SpenceCo II
Sep 19, 2025

Thank goodness for the iPhone, the printed Merriam-Webster won't fit in my pocket. I don't want to be without it. Ripe Old Age Thank goodness for the iPhone, the printed Merriam-Webster won't fit in my pocket. I don't want to be without it.

Fox & Rabbit
Sep 20, 2025

I use this app more than any app on my phone. Can’t recommend highly enough! Best Dictionary Ever I use this app more than any app on my phone. Can’t recommend highly enough!

CheweysDad
Sep 21, 2025

When you need a concise explanation of a word’s meaning look to this app. It gives you syntax, grammar, as well as easy links to further information on the word; origins and meanings. I use the thesaurus to give my writing more confidence and show my knowledge of the English language. A trusted reference When you need a concise explanation of a word’s meaning look to this app. It gives you syntax, grammar, as well as easy links to further information on the word; origins and meanings. I use the thesaurus to give my writing more confidence and show my knowledge of the English language.

App Details

Developer

Merriam-Webster, Inc.

Platform

ios

Rating

4.8

Last Updated

10/7/2025