Google Dictionary has become the latest Google Web service to get the axe. Google launched the service in December, 2009, replacing its prior practice of showing definitions from Answers.com. The page now displays a tiny, forlorn message recommending that users simply use Web search to look up definitions.
Google has integrated dictionary functionality directly into search, making a separate page for dictionary queries unnecessary. But for anyone with a Google Dictionary bookmark, the change might have seemed sudden.
In response to a shrill outcry from a handful of loyal Google Dictionary users, the community manager for Google search offered this explanation:
“As many of you know, we’ve recently introduced a dictionary tool into Google Web Search to help you quickly look up the definition of a word,. Because the dictionary tool offers the same functionality as Google Dictionary, we’ve decided to discontinue dictionary.google.com.
For your definition needs, you can type your query right into the search box and use the dictionary tool located in the left-hand panel on the results page, or you can type [define (your word)] right into the search box.
I want to thank those of who who’ve been loyal users of dictionary.google.com and welcome you to share your feedback on how the dictionary tool can be improved.”
Dictionary joins a growing list of Google services to be phased out as the company streamlines its Web priorities.
