LibGuides: Literature: Literary Terminology

Reference Resources for Terms & Definitions

A Glossary of Literary Terms, 6th Edition by Abrams, M. H.
Call Number: PN 41 .A184 1988
ISBN: 0030549825
One of the most widely used dictionaries of literary terminology. Entries are in essay format going beyond simple definitions.

Not sure what an allusion is? Need to understand what is meant by didactic literature? These sources will help. You'll find them in the library's Reference Collection.

The Penguin Dictionary of Literary Terms and Literary Theory, 4th Edition by Cuddon, J.A.
Call Number: PN 41 .C83 1999 REF
ISBN: 0140513639
Comprehensive listing of important literary terms with succient definitions.
A Handbook to Literature by William Harman & Hugh Holman
Call Number: PN 41 H355 2003 Ref
ISBN: 0130979988

Websites

Literary Criticism has its own special vocabularly. Discover word meanings with these online tools.

Literary Vocabulary
An alphabetical listing of frequently used literary terms and phrases.
Literary & Rhetorical Terms by Category
Provides definitions of key terms used in literary criticism. Developed by the University of Victoria.
Dictionary of Literary Terms
Basic dictionary of literary terminology.
Glossary of Literary Terms (Virtual Salt)
Dictionary of literary terms and phrases. Entries include helpful examples.

Dictionaries & Thesauri

Need help spelling a word? Want to find alternate word choices? These sources will help.

Online English Language Dictionaries
Access to several reputable dictionaries, including Cambridge and Webster. A Grammar Glossary is also available.
Roget's Thesaurus
Online database version of Roget's classic thesaurus (public domain edition from 1911)
Free Dictionary
Contains links to several dictionary sources, including foreign language dictionaries.