encyclopedic

or en·cy·clo·pae·dic

[ en-sahy-kluh-pee-dik ]

adjective

1. pertaining to or of the nature of an encyclopedia; relating to all branches of knowledge.
2. comprehending a wide variety of information; comprehensive:

   an encyclopedic memory.

   Synonyms: wide-ranging, exhaustive, all-inclusive, all-embracing

encyclopedic

/ ɛnˌsaɪkləʊˈpiːdɪk /

adjective

1. of, characteristic of, or relating to an encyclopedia
2. covering a wide range of knowledge; comprehensive

Derived Forms

• enˌcycloˈpedically, adverb

Other Words From

• en·cyclo·pedi·cal·ly en·cyclo·paedi·cal·ly adverb
• nonen·cyclo·paedic adjective
• nonen·cyclo·pedic adjective
• nonen·cyclo·pedi·cal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of encyclopedic¹

First recorded in 1815–25; encycloped(ia) + -ic

Example Sentences

A camera that wants to be as drunk as the self-destructive figure it’s supposed to observe, on top of slapdash time-jumping and interludes of encyclopedic narration about science and myth that pull us away from the central performance, makes for an ultimately unstable partner — no matter how well-intentioned, and even occasionally effective, Fingscheidt’s handling of this material.

From Los Angeles Times

"I recommend reading 'Biological Exuberance' by Bruce Bagemihl if you want an encyclopedic approach, or 'Queer Ducks' by Eliot Schrefer for something more fun and accessible."

From Salon

But in fusing his artistic flair with an encyclopedic knowledge of ocean creatures, he became an invaluable, sui generis figure to conservationists, educators and those curious about sea life.

From New York Times

The book, her first British bestseller, was comprehensive and encyclopedic, ranging from meal planning to financial literacy and fuel conservation.

From Seattle Times

Yet the book, her first British best seller, was comprehensive and encyclopedic, ranging from meal planning to financial literacy and fuel conservation.

From New York Times

Related Words

• exhaustive
• extensive
• thorough
• vast
• wide-ranging