FAQ: How do I cite a reference material like an encyclopedia or dictionary in APA Style?

Entry in an Online Encyclopedia (Group Author)

General Format

Name of Group. (Year OR n.d. for no date). Title of entry. In Title of the reference. Retrieved Month day, year, from https://xxxxxx

For Example

Encyclopædia Britannica. (n.d.). Muhammad Ali. In Britannica academic. Retrieved May 21, 2024, from https://academic.eb.com/levels/collegiate/article/Muhammad-Ali/5713

Corresponding In-Text Citation

(Encyclopædia Britannica, n.d.)

Encyclopædia Britannica (n.d.)

Online Dictionary Entry (Group Author)

General Format

Name of Group. (Year OR n.d. for no date). Word. In Dictionary Name. Retrieved Date, from URL

For Example

Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Tontine. In Merriam-Webster.com dictionary. Retrieved May 21, 2024, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tontine

Corresponding In-Text Citation

(Merriam-Webster, n.d.)

Merriam-Webster (n.d.)

More Examples

• APA guide - Reference Word Reference Examples (Shapiro Library)
• Dictionary Entry References This link opens in a new window (American Psychological Association)

Disclaimer

This information is intended to be a guideline, not expert advice. Please be sure to speak to your professor about the appropriate way to cite sources in your class assignments and projects.