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Right-click dictionary lookup opens a definition for a word or phrase from the app or webpage where you found it, without switching to a dictionary and retyping the text. On a Mac, Apple documents the built-in command as Control-click the word or phrase, then choose Look Up.
What right-click dictionary lookup means
It is a context-menu action that requests a definition for selected or clicked text. The definition may appear in a small pop-up or another system interface; the exact presentation and available options depend on the app and platform.
“Right-click dictionary lookup” describes an interaction, not a universal feature with one standard menu label. Apple’s built-in Mac command is called Look Up. A browser extension can provide a similar action, but support in one app or browser does not establish support everywhere.
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How to look up a word on a Mac
- In an app, webpage, photo, or image, Control-click the word or phrase. If the app requires it, select the text first.
- Choose Look Up from the shortcut menu.
- Use the result window’s available controls to see a fuller definition, open Dictionary, or inspect other categories when offered.
Apple also documents two alternatives: tap with three fingers on the trackpad if that gesture is selected in Trackpad settings, or use force click if it is enabled on a supported trackpad. These are alternative ways to invoke Look Up, not separate dictionary products. Apple’s Mac instructions cover the available interactions.
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What determines the lookup result
On a Mac, the sources enabled in Dictionary settings affect what appears when you look up a term. Open the Dictionary app’s settings and select or deselect sources to change dictionary coverage. A lookup may return no definition if the term is absent from the selected sources; Apple says Dictionary may suggest alternatives. Screen Time restrictions can also affect lookup availability. Apple’s Dictionary settings guidance explains how to manage sources.
Why the command may be missing elsewhere
Menu labels and availability vary by app, browser, and operating system. If Look Up does not appear, the application may not support that action for the text or content you clicked. You may need to select the word first, use the platform’s built-in lookup gesture, or install a compatible extension.
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For example, EnglishReference documents a Chrome extension workflow in which you select a word, right-click it, and choose “Look up.” This is that provider’s extension flow, not a guarantee that Chrome or other browsers include the same command by default. See EnglishReference’s extension information.
How apps can implement dictionary lookup
Applications can also provide dictionary lookup through platform APIs. Apple’s BrowserEngineKit documentation describes an API for presenting a dictionary definition for selected content, including the system UI call an implementation can use. That implementation context helps explain why the same kind of lookup can appear in different apps without every app having an identical menu. Apple BrowserEngineKit documentation describes the framework.
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Privacy depends on the implementation
Apple says messages, emails, and other content are not sent to Apple during its documented Mac lookup workflow, while identified Look Up hints and related usage data may be sent. That statement applies to Apple’s feature; it should not be assumed to describe third-party extensions or other platforms. For those, check the provider’s own privacy information.
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