Dictionary Search API

Quick Start

Make a simple GET request to retrieve word definitions. All responses are returned as JSON.

GET /api/v1/search?q=ephemeral&lang=en
Authorization: Bearer sk_live_51HG... 
Accept: application/json

Authentication

The Dictionary API uses Bearer tokens for authentication. You can manage your API keys in the developer console.

Include this header in every request:
Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY

Rate Limits

Plan	Requests / Minute	Concurrent
Free	60	2
Pro	1,000	10
Enterprise	Unlimited	Unlimited

Endpoints

GET /api/v1/search

Retrieve comprehensive word data including definitions, phonetics, parts of speech, examples, and related terms.

Query Parameters

Parameter	Type	Required	Description
q	string	Required	The word or phrase to search for.
lang	string		Language code (ISO 639-1). Defaults to `en`.
limit	integer		Max results to return. Range: 1-10. Default: 1.
include	string		Comma-separated list: `synonyms`, `antonyms`, `phonetics`, `examples`.

Response Example

{
  "word": "ephemeral",
  "phonetic": "/əˈfem.ər.əl/",
  "meanings": [
    {
      "partOfSpeech": "adjective",
      "definitions": [
        {
          "definition": "Lasting for a very short time.",
          "example": "The ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms."
        }
      ],
      "synonyms": ["fleeting", "transient"],
      "antonyms": ["permanent", "enduring"]
    }
  ],
  "license": "CC BY-SA 4.0"
}

🧪 Try it out

Live endpoint simulation

Response will appear here...

Error Handling

The API uses standard HTTP status codes and returns detailed error objects.

Code	Meaning	Resolution
400	Bad Request	Check query parameters and syntax.
401	Unauthorized	Verify your API key is correct and active.
403	Forbidden	Key lacks permission for requested scope.
404	Not Found	Word not found in dictionary database.
429	Rate Limited	Slow down or upgrade your plan.
500	Server Error	Internal issue. Try again or contact support.

{
  "error": {
    "code": "not_found",
    "message": "The requested word could not be found.",
    "documentation_url": "https://api.dictionary.com/errors/404"
  }
}