Dictionary Setup & Usage Guide
One of the great advantages of reading digitally is getting instant translations by clicking or tapping on words. This guide covers everything you need to know about setting up and using dictionaries across different devices and apps.
Kindle Devices
Kindle Paperwhite & Earlier Generations
- Open "Settings"
- Select "Language & Dictionaries"
- Set your preferred dictionary
- Tap words while reading to see translations
tip
You can switch dictionaries while reading by long-pressing a word, tapping the dictionary name, and selecting a new one. The setting usually persists — but may reset after updates.
Helpful Guides:
- General Kindle Device Dictionary Guide
- Quick Dictionary Switching Tutorial
- Using the Kindle Vocabulary Builder
Kindle iOS App
- Open any book
- Tap and hold a word
- Select your dictionary
Related Articles:
Kindle Android App
- Open any book
- Long-press a word
- Swipe through the bottom panel (Wikipedia, Translate) until you get to the Dictionary Panel
- Select your dictionary
Other Reading Apps
Apple Books
- Select text
- Choose "Look Up"
- View dictionary or translation suggestions
note
Requires dictionary download or enabling "Translate" in iOS settings.
Recommended Dictionary Apps
For iOS
For Android
Tips & Tricks
Quick Dictionary Switching (Kindle)
- While reading, long-press a word
- Tap the dictionary name
- Select a different dictionary
tip
This change typically persists — but may reset after Kindle updates or sleep cycles.
Vocabulary Building
- Use Kindle’s Vocabulary Builder
- Track words you’ve looked up
- Create custom flashcard decks
- Review regularly
warning
Not all Kindle models support exporting Vocabulary Builder data. Some require workarounds or third-party tools.
Browser Extensions
For web-based reading:
- Google Translate Extension - Fast and reliable with multiple translations per word
- DeepL Translator - High-quality translations with example sentences and pronunciation
- Dict.cc Extension
- Mate Translate - Fast lookups with customizable shortcuts
- LinguaLeo - Offers context translation and personal dictionary
- ImTranslator - Supports in-line translations and multiple translation engines
tip
Most of these extensions work on any Chromium-based browser (Chrome, Edge, Vivaldi, Opera, Brave).
Troubleshooting
Wrong Dictionary Language?
- Open "Settings > Language & Dictionaries"
- Make sure the correct language is selected
- Switch dictionaries manually if needed
Missing Dictionary Option?
- Ensure your Kindle app/device is up to date
- Check if your Amazon region supports the desired dictionary
note
Some custom bilingual dictionaries are region-locked. You may need to switch your Amazon account to a supported region (e.g., US, UK, DE) to download them.