Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Basic English

Simple meanings help you use words the right way. • Over 33,000 entries cover the words you need today. Spellings and pronunciations help you write and speak with clarity. • Every entry shows you how to spell and say the word. Word histories help you understand where words come from. • Over 200 word history paragraphs tell interesting stories about words. Special sections help you find information fast. • Find answers fast in special sections including abbreviations, signs and symbols, biographical names, and geographical names. • New features include basic English grammar section and guide to punctuation.