Google Search to define words better with synonyms and etymology

Anuradha ShettyAug 23, 2013 14:26:02 IST

We often head to Google to get quick definitions of tricky words. Now it’ll be possible to not just get definitions for those terms on Google, but also view sample sentences highlighting how that word is used, as well as its synonyms.  Google has introduced a small but nifty update to its search engine, both on the web as well as on mobile devices that lends it this new ability.  

Here's how it looks

Those using the Google Search application on their mobile devices can tap the microphone on the app to hear answers spoken back when they ask questions like “What’s the definition of fortuitous?” and “What are synonyms for fortuitous?”, explains Google in its post. In addition, Google will also give you the etymology of the word, explaining its origins and evolution.

Google Search users can even try translating words to one of the 60+ languages directly from the box. Once they’ve selected a language, all their definition searches in the future will provide a translation to that same language. It looks like Google has rolled out these changes only to its US customers for now. There is no word as to when it will be rolled out to other parts of the world.

More than just definitions now!

Google recently introduced a new feature to search to help users find relevant in-depth articles in the main results. Looking up topics on Google now will return a variety of articles, covering several aspects of the topic in question. Suppose you’re reading an article on censorship, the author says that you’ll find articles from varying publications and works from authors who have written on the subject.