Dictionary recommendations plse

[Chocaholic]

I am looking for a really good dictionary for my mum for Christmas. She loves crosswords and has been using the Australasian Universal Dictionary (printed in 1968). She loves it but it is falling apart. I have googled and can't get a replacement copy so need a recommendation for a really good dictionary.

Any suggestions?

[Jennifer13]

I use the Macquarie Dictionary. They have a thesaurus as well. They do a standard and a very nice double edition. They're hard bound if you're looking for something durable, soft cover if not.

Personally, I prefer the Oxford Dictionary (the big hard cover version), but since I work in writing and reports in Australia, I tend to stick to Macquarie for reference purposes.

I'm not sure how these are for crosswords though!

If your Mum is interested, you might even like to see if you can find a dictionary of etymology. It deals with the history of words and is so interesting. Nice to look up a word and not just see its meaning, but also where it's from. I had a bit of trouble finding anything really comprehensive though.

[Netix]

Are you still looking for a dictionary? I saw a crossword dictionary and crossword puzzle book bundle at the post office yesterday for $15. Just thought I'd let you know!