encyclopaedy

Encyclopedia En*cy`clo*pe"di*a, Encyclopaedia En*cy`clo*p[ae]"di*a, n. [NL., fr. Gr. ?, for ? ?, instruction in the circle of arts and sciences: cf. F. encyclop['e]die. See {Cyclopedia}, and {Encyclical}.] [Formerly written {encyclop[ae]dy} 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. [1913 Webster]