Where Are Mac Custom Dictionaries Stored?
macOS files custom dictionaries in a Dictionaries folder in Library, one file per added word list.
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Beyond spellcheck sits reference. The Dictionaries folder holds full dictionary bundles the Dictionary app and Spotlight consult on lookup, from system defaults to user added references.
Custom terminology, bilingual pairs, and developer references install here as bundles. Enabling happens in Dictionary preferences where ordering decides which source answers first. Copying the folder moves a whole reference shelf between Macs.
Where macOS stores this, by platform
~/Library/Dictionaries
Dictionary bundles live here. Install by dropping bundles in and enabling them in Dictionary preferences. Use Go to Folder to reach Library.
Frequently asked questions
How do I install a custom dictionary?
Double click the .dictionary bundle or drop it into the folder, then enable it in Dictionary app preferences. Restart the app to pick up the new source. Order in preferences sets lookup priority.
How is this different from LocalDictionary?
Spelling learns into LocalDictionary while Dictionary sources live here as full references. One teaches typing, the other answers lookups. Back up both for complete language coverage.
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