Enciklopédia

Enciklopédia is a reference work that collects articles on a wide range of subjects, aiming to present established knowledge in a concise and accessible form. Entries are typically written by specialists and organized to help readers find related topics through cross-references and indexes. The concept seeks to provide a synthesis of current understanding rather than original research. The word derives from the Greek enkyklios paideia, meaning a circle of learning, and entered Western languages through Latin encyclopaedia and French encyclopédie; in Hungarian the form is enciklopédia.

History and scope: The modern encyclopedia developed from late medieval and early modern attempts to compile comprehensive knowledge. The Encyclopédie of Diderot and d’Alembert (France, 1751–1772) is often cited as a landmark in presenting knowledge in a systematic, critical, and secular framework. Other influential general encyclopedias followed around the world, including Britannica (first published 1768). Over time the print format expanded to multiple volumes and later gave way to digital media, allowing broader access and more frequent updates.

Usage and language: In Hungarian, enciklopédia denotes the general concept as well as the titles of national or regional encyclopedias. The term has been borrowed into several languages with various spellings and diacritics. In the digital era, online encyclopedias—ranging from curated reference sites to collaboratively edited platforms—have transformed how readers access and contribute to knowledge.

See also: encyclopedia; Encyclopaedia Britannica; Wikipedia.