In Summer 2023, Oxford English Dictionary introduced a new website. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with it by reviewing OED's Getting Started.
Getting Started
STEP 1
From sfpl.org, click the Research & Learn tab and then select Articles & Databases, or go directly to sfpl.org/databases. It might be helpful to bookmark the link for quicker access to this page in the future.
STEP 2
Filter by Letter "O". You may also filter by the Topic "Encyclopedias & Dictionaries" to locate this online resource.
STEP 3
Scroll down to Oxford English Dictionary, then click its access link.
STEP 4
Log in with your 14-digit card number (without spaces or dashes) and Library PIN or password. If you need to reset your PIN or password, use the PIN Reset Tool.
STEP 5
Click the person icon to confirm your connection to the Library subscription. If San Francisco Public Library doesn't appear under Institutional access, then repeat Steps 1 through 4.
STEP 6
Type in the search box at the top of the page to locate specific words. As you type, OED will display suggested words.
STEP 7
Click the word to learn more about it.
You may also access Factsheet, Meaning & use, Etymology, Pronunciation, Forms, and Compounds & derived words.
TIPS
- Use the search boxes and search tabs provided by Oxford English Dictionary to stay connected to the Library subscription.
- Links displayed in the Oxford English Dictionary footer at the bottom of the page may take you outside the subscription area. If this happens, you'll need to re-authenticate by repeating Steps 1 through 4.
- Try not to use the "Back" or "Refresh" button on your web browser. This may inadvertently disconnect your remote connection.
- Being idle for more than 15 minutes may disconnect your remote connection.
Links & Files
phone / email / text hours:
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| 12-6 | 9-6 |
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