encyclopedia

Definitions

A book or set of books giving information on many subjects or on many aspects of one subject and typically arranged alphabetically.

A comprehensive reference work containing articles on a wide range of subjects or a specific field of knowledge.

Examples

I spent the afternoon reading through the encyclopedia to learn more about ancient civilizations.

The library's collection includes a comprehensive encyclopedia that covers almost every scientific topic imaginable.

Synonyms

compendium reference work treasury of knowledge cyclopedia almanac handbook

Antonyms

fragment brief note single article sketch incomplete summary