Dictionary App: How to Use the Dictionary App

Shift makes it easy to quickly look up definitions, find alternative vocabulary, and research information on almost any topic without disrupting your workflow. By combining a comprehensive Dictionary, Thesaurus, and Encyclopedia all within a single interface, you can find the exact text assets you need right inside your panel.

How to Access the App

Launch Shift on your computer.
Locate and click the Dictionary icon on your sidebar layout to open the consolidated information pane.

Step-by-Step Feature Guides

1. Searching the Dictionary

Use the dictionary view to look up formal definitions, pronunciation keys, and parts of speech.

In the left-hand sidebar panel of the app, locate the Search Dictionary field.
Type the specific word you want to look up.
Click the Search button. The main display area will instantly populate with the word's definitive meanings.

(Demonstrates a user entering a word into the "Search Dictionary" field, clicking the Search button, and viewing results on the main page.)

2. Searching the Thesaurus

Use the thesaurus view to elevate your writing style by uncovering related terms or contrasting meanings.

In the left-hand sidebar panel of the app, locate the Search Thesaurus field.
Type the target word you want to modify.
Click the Search button. The main display area will show you a comprehensive list of the word's synonyms (similar words) and antonyms (opposite words).

*GIF shows a user entering search terms into the "search thesaurus" field, clicking the Search button, and receiving the results on the main page.

3. Searching the Encyclopedia

Use the encyclopedia view to quickly verify objective facts, historical data, and background context about people, places, or technical concepts.

In the left-hand sidebar panel of the app, locate the Search Encyclopedia field.
Type the specific keyword or core topic you wish to research.
Click the Search button to view your indexed informational articles.