Encyclopaedic

/ˌɛnsaɪkləˈpiːdɪk/ adjective

Definition

Covering a wide range of subjects comprehensively; having the broad, detailed scope characteristic of an encyclopedia.

Etymology

British English spelling from encyclopedia + -ic suffix. The Greek roots enkyklios ('circular, general') + paideia ('education') literally meant a 'complete education.' American English uses 'encyclopedic' without the 'a'.

Kelly Says

When someone has 'encyclopaedic knowledge,' they're essentially claiming to have read an entire library—which in the Digital Age means Wikipedia might count!

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