# glossary

/ˈɡɫɔsɝi/ (US) · /ɡlˈɒsəɹi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/glossary
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a list of special or difficult words and their meanings, usually found at the back of a book. You use it to quickly check the definition of a term you do not know.

For teachers: an alphabetical list of terms relating to a specific subject, text, or dialect, accompanied by explanations. Often located in the back matter of a technical or academic publication.

## Examples

- Check the glossary at the back of the book for the definition.
- The textbook includes a comprehensive glossary to help students master the complex terminology used in each chapter.
- While the main text avoids jargon, the author provided an extensive glossary to ensure that readers could reference the precise legal definitions of the terms discussed.

## Usage notes

- Typically takes the preposition 'of' when specifying the subject matter ('a glossary of medical terms').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.