{ En*cy`clo*pe"di*a, En*cy`clo*pæ"di*a }
(?), n. [NL., fr. Gr. ?, for ? ?, instruction
in the circle of arts and sciences: cf. F.
encyclopédie. See Cyclopedia, and
Encyclical.] [Formerly written encyclopædy and
encyclopedy.] The circle of arts and sciences; a
comprehensive summary of knowledge, or of a branch of knowledge;
esp., a work in which the various branches of science or art are
discussed separately, and usually in alphabetical order; a
cyclopedia.