Though the features are pretty limited, this is a neat tool for accessing and exploring new words and their definitions. The way information is organized on-screen is especially good: It’s great that the app presents each word with its definitions and synonyms, along with several examples of how to use the word correctly in the context of a sentence. It’s a thoughtful way of presenting a ton of information, and it may make the process of encountering new words a little more approachable and structured.
Beyond that, this app isn’t likely to become a go-to study tool. Adding words one by one is a little time consuming, and there’s no way to organize your saved words beyond alphabetical order. And, since you can use the app only with an internet connection, it may not be a superior alternative to finding definitions from Google or directly from another online dictionary source. Also, this app was developed by a third party, not by Merriam-Webster itself, and it’s not exactly clear if this is an acceptable use of Merriam-Webster’s content. Overall, this app is worth a look as a quick way to collect interesting words, but look elsewhere for a tool to help build and hone vocabulary.
Website: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id1504626908?uo=4&at=10laCG&ct=website
Overall User Consensus About the App
Student Engagement
There’s not much here to motivate learners or hold their interest, and there’s not much you can do to organize your saved words.
Curriculum and Instruction
It’s great that you can compare new words you search to words you’ve previously saved; more instructions about how to use that feature effectively would be a welcome addition.
Customer Support
There aren’t a ton of features to explore, but for those that are included, there’s very little information about how to use them effectively.
