Entity: THESAURUS
A thesaurus is a reference work that arranges words by their meanings, providing synonyms for each word to help expand vocabulary and avoid repetition in writing.
THESAURUS
Etymology
The word 'thesaurus' originates from the Latin 'thesaurus' and the Greek 'thesauros,' both meaning a treasury or storehouse.
Definition
A thesaurus is a book or reference work that lists words grouped together according to similarity of meaning, providing synonyms for each word to help expand vocabulary and avoid repetition in writing.
Historical Context
Thesauri have been used since ancient times to aid in writing and communication, with the first recorded use dating back to 1730-40.
Cultural Significance
Thesauri are valuable tools for writers, students, and anyone looking to enhance their language skills by exploring alternative words and expressions.
Related Concepts
- Dictionary: A collection of words along with their meanings and usage explanations.
See Also
A thesaurus is a book or reference work that lists words grouped together according to similarity of meaning, in contrast to a dictionary which defines words and explains their usage.