1 / 7Merriam-Webster Children's Dictionary, Illustrated Edition
Edition: Merriam-Webster Children's Dictionary is an illustrated English reference for young readers, with over 35,000 entries and more than 3,000 photographs and illustrations. Definitions, usage examples, spelling and punctuation notes, maps and reference material make it suited to schoolwork, though the listed weight may make it less convenient to carry.
At a glance
- Definitions are described as written for readers in grades 2 and 3, with usage examples and spelling and punctuation notes.
- Color-coded page borders distinguish alphabet sections.
- Includes continent maps, world flags, U.S. state information and flags, and lists of U.S. presidents and vice-presidents.
- Synonym and Word History boxes add context to selected words.
Reference price: $45.99
Price checked: Nov 13, 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- The large entry count and example sentences support looking up words and seeing them used in context.
- Full-colour images and alphabet-coded page borders offer visual navigation for young readers.
- Reference pages and maps extend the book beyond word definitions.
Cons
- At a listed 2.18 kg, it may be cumbersome for children to carry regularly.
Technical specifications
12 specifications| Edition | Illustrated |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Print length | 928 pages |
| Publisher | DK Children |
| Publication date | Dec 31 2019 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1465488824 |
| Suggested reading age | Customer suggested age: 5 - 9 years |
|---|---|
| Grade level | 1 - 4 |
| Dimensions | 20.5 x 4.8 x 24.1 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 2.18 kg |
| Entries | over 35,000 entries |
|---|---|
| Photographs and illustrations | more than 3,000 full-color photographs and illustrations |
What to know before buying
Listing details to confirm
The listing describes the intended readers in different ways: the main description says ages 7–9 and second- to third-grade reading level, while the details list a suggested age of 5–9 and grades 1–4. Treat these as guidance rather than a single consistent age or grade range.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Families and educators seeking a substantial illustrated English dictionary for school assignments or home reference.
- Young readers who benefit from visual examples, usage sentences and alphabet-based navigation.
Less suited to
- Readers looking for a lightweight dictionary to carry around every day.
- Buyers who need age or grade guidance to match a single, consistent range.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
84% 84% - 4 stars
11% 11% - 3 stars
2% 2% - 2 stars
1% 1% - 1 star
2% 2%
Customer feedback commonly describes the book as informative, colourful and engaging, and appreciates its illustrations, breadth of words and example sentences. Some customers find it heavy, which matters given the listed 2.18 kg weight. Views on clarity are mixed, so children may find some definitions easier to use than others. The aggregate ratings are mostly five-star, but ratings alone do not explain individual experiences.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the illustrations as appealing and the book as informative and engaging.
- Customers appreciate the range of words and the example sentences.
Negative themes
- Some customers find the book heavy.
Mixed feedback
- Feedback on definition clarity is mixed.
Frequently asked questions
What is included in the dictionary?
The listing describes over 35,000 entries, more than 3,000 photographs and illustrations, usage examples, spelling and punctuation notes, maps, flags and other reference pages.
What age group is it intended for?
The listing gives differing guidance: ages 7–9 and second- to third-grade reading level in the description, and a suggested age of 5–9 with grades 1–4 in the product details.
Is it practical for a child to carry?
The listed weight is 2.18 kg, so it may be more suitable as a desk or home reference than a book to carry regularly.
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