Latin-English dictionary for Google Chrome
Whitaker's Words Helper is a free browser add-on created by developer FullBlown. This Google Chrome extension is a dictionary utility tool that can help users define and translate words between English and Latin languages. It boasts simple operation that can quickly process any word or multiple selections.
The way Whitaker's Words Helpers work is similar to Google Translate for Chrome. The main distinction between the two is that the latter can be used with multiple languages, while the former was developed specifically for English-Latin users. It also uses its own translate engine and ever-growing word database.
Old tongue
Latin was the predominant dialect of the Roman Republic and throughout its various domains and territories. It eventually "died out" and transformed into simplified versions of itself and became the foundation from which Spanish, French, Italian, and other languages were derived. It is still being spoken by a select few and studied by academics, and if you're one of the latter, Whitaker's Words Helper might come in handy for you.
This language app is basically a Google Chrome browser extension and quick look-up tool for English translations and definitions of Latin words. To start using it, simply double-click on a word, and its definition will appear. If you want to do it for multiple words, highlight the ones you want, right-click on them, and select the Get Latin Definitions option from the contextual menu that will appear.
There is also an option called Get Scansion, which will scan your selected text for dactylic hexameter, a form of rhythmic scheme that is used in poetry. One thing to note is that the extension itself has not been updated in a long time. You can still use and take advantage of its benefits, though. Just be aware that some compatibility issues might arise with newer versions of Chrome.
Carpe diem
Whether you're an academic or a practitioner looking to brush up on the old language, Whitaker's Words Helper is a handy English-Latin dictionary to have around. It's lightweight, easy to use, and requires no setup to get you started. It hasn't been updated in a while, though, but it does not diminish the utility and convenience this tool offers. Give it a try.
