If you need a dictionary real quick but don’t have anything at hand, try this with Google:

Neat, huh? Now you don’t have to wait for Merriam-Webster Online or Dictionary.com to load.

Postscript!

What I did before I discovered this search technique, especially when I forget about my bookmarked online dictionaries, is to simply type into the search field, “define [word]” or “meaning [word]” or more naturally, “what meaning of [word]?” Of course, you can also do this, and Google or any other search engine will point you to pages, usually specific pages of online dictionaries, that define those word/s.

Adding the define:word parameter, however, gives you much more relevant searches. It tells Google that you are looking for definitions of a particular word/phrase, instead of just random high-ranked pages that have those word/s in them. (This is a bit oversimplified; how Google brings you relevant results is more complicated. If you’re interested, you can read more about it here.)

It means that instead of you having to sift through each search result as a regular search does, using this technique brings you those definitions instantly. Try finding out the difference between typing define parameter and define:parameter.

Personally, I find the last search option much more convenient. However, when I’m unsure of how a word or expression is used (especially idioms and prepositions) and when I want to check proper usage in general, I still do it the old way. That’s another tip for you. More to come.