Sõnastikukirjandus

Sõnastikukirjandus refers to a body of literary works that are organized in a dictionary-like or glossary format. This can encompass a wide range of texts, from traditional dictionaries and encyclopedias to more specialized lexicons, thesauri, and even fictional works that adopt a dictionary structure. The primary purpose of sõnastikukirjandus is to define, explain, and categorize words or concepts, often providing etymological information, usage examples, and related terms.

While dictionaries and encyclopedias are the most common examples, the concept can extend to literature where the author intentionally uses a structured, alphabetical, or thematic arrangement of terms to convey information or tell a story. This can be a pedagogical tool, a scholarly reference, or an artistic choice. The development of sõnastikukirjandus is closely tied to the history of lexicography and the increasing need to codify and disseminate knowledge. Its evolution reflects societal changes in literacy, education, and the desire for standardized language. The precise scope of what constitutes sõnastikukirjandus can vary, but it fundamentally relates to written works focused on the systematic presentation of linguistic or conceptual units.