Dictionaries
look up words and learn
Not every dictionary is as good as the next one! The best reference tools offer a precise definition and also sample sentences and synonyms.
We've found exactly these kinds of dictionaries for
you and organized them in the list below.
- Learn correct pronunciation when you look up word!
- Use dictionaries on your PC or smartphone!
The best German ↔ English dictionaries:
Online dictionaries
A clearly structured dictionary that provides precise definitions as well as synonyms and expressions related to the search term.-
This popular dictionary features a clear and simple design. When looking up words, translations as well as phrases containing the search phrase are shown. Together with the free (German only) you can learn even more effectively!
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Ultralingua - Simple and Helpful
A simple but useful dictionary that displays word definitions and translations along with common phrases and expressions. -
Bab.la dictionary - More than Just Translations
Bab.la is more than just a simple dictionary. Aside from the translation of German words, you can listen to pronunciation, view synonyms and remember the meaning of words by reading example sentences. -
Linguee - Understand Words in Context
Look up words and view definitions along with translations containing the search term. Linguee contains more than a million translated texts that are referenced when you search, which allows you to view how the word is used in context. 
DWDS - Comprehensive Reference Work
This German dictionary provides you with synonyms, sample sentences, descriptions and more. With over 410,000 verified entries from five different dictionary sources. The website is only available in German.-
OpenThesaurus - Synonyms and Examples
A useful reference work that provides you with synonyms and associated words to your search term along with other useful information.
Freeware dictionaries for download
LingoPad - Convenient Learning Offline (Windows)
LingoPad is a multi-lingual freeware dictionary for Windows. After installation, choose your preferred dictionary for German via the dictionary symbol in the menu on the left. The dictionary contains over 230,000 search terms. With the keyboard shortcut Alt + F12, you can search for the content of your clipboard. This allows you to easily use the dictionary in combination with other programs.Lingoes - Translations in Multiple Programs
Use this program to find definitions and translations of words in 80 different languages. Lingoes can also be used to translate words in other programs with a simple keyboard shortcut, which you can read about in the .
The German dictionary can be added to the program after the initial installation.
